Experts discuss evidence-based literacy instruction, the role of handwriting in reading education, and the importance of understanding word roots for effective teaching. They also explore fostering a love for writing, the use of AI in education, and the integration of reading and writing skills in educational settings.
Writing instruction should be evidence-based and integrated with reading practices.
Focus on creating a comprehensive writing curriculum by integrating various writing skills.
Challenges in current writing instruction include limited teacher modeling and integration of writing across subjects.
Deep dives
Importance and Scope of the Science of Writing
Writing instruction is seen as a science that encompasses effective instructional practices and approaches to teaching writing. Despite writing's essential role in comprehension and learning, the depth of research in writing effectiveness, especially compared to reading, is highlighted. The need for evidence-based literacy instruction is emphasized, aiming to integrate reading and writing practices.
Position of Writing in Literacy Pillars
Writing is deemed to be a pillar of literacy deserving its distinct focus rather than being assimilated into other literacy components. The notion of a 'writing rope' framework is introduced to underscore the multi-faceted nature of writing skills necessary for proficient writing. Integrating various writing skills and strategies to create a comprehensive writing curriculum is highlighted for effective instruction.
Challenges and Opportunities in Writing Instruction
Current writing instruction in schools faces challenges such as limited teacher modeling, lack of integration of writing across subjects, and insufficiency in providing explicit writing instruction. The call for more teacher modeling during writing instruction, integration of writing within subject areas, and the importance of explicit instruction, particularly in advanced writing processes, are emphasized as crucial improvement areas.
Teaching Spelling and Its Components
Spelling instruction involves more than just phonics, encompassing understanding the orthographic system, regular and irregular words, and layers like etymology and morphology. It is important to impart a deeper knowledge of spelling beyond basic phonics, ensuring students grasp the orthographic system and its intricacies. Emphasizing integration and practice throughout the day aids in enhancing spelling skills by employing meta language and exploring various aspects of orthography.
Developing Writing Skills Across Grade Levels
Effective writing instruction should start early, introducing genres, voice, and style to young learners, contrary to the belief that certain writing skills should wait until students are older. By focusing on fostering a love for writing in students from a young age, educators can create a positive attitude towards writing that transcends grade levels. Flexibility and metacognitive development are essential as students mature, allowing them to adapt their writing strategies and think critically about their writing choices as they progress in their writing journey.
