Plan problems into narrative stories Kid-created pieces often have characters who are walking and talking inside of detailed settings. However, they lack a plot! In order to have a plot, someTHING has to happen to someONE. This conflict is what makes a story engaging!...
Pre-write in 2 steps with the ABC Chart Graphic organizers and outlines, when used alone, presume the student knows what he wants to say and where he wants to say it—at the same time. A more universal strategy to help students cultivate and organize ideas is the ABC...
Overcome “listy” writing with idea development Long writing does not necessarily equate to strong writing. As we encourage students to write more, add details, and make their pieces longer, we must distinguish between writing that is long and “listy” versus that which...
End writing units with a from-scratch product When preparing a writing unit, teachers consider the new skills to teach and assess. But the point of the unit is not to spend weeks crafting the final product. Instead, the bulk of the unit is spent teaching new skills...
What curriculum will improve our writing instruction? When educators take on the challenge of improving achievement in writing, a common starting point is to search for a robust writing curriculum. While an investment in a boxed curriculum may offer important guidance...
