35. Why Transcription Skills Matter in Early Writing Instruction with Amy Siracusano

In this insightful episode, I sit down with literacy expert, Amy Siracusano, to unpack the critical role that transcription skills play in early writing development. Together, we explore why handwriting, spelling, and fine motor skills aren’t just mechanical tasks—they’re foundational tools that unlock a child’s ability to communicate their thoughts effectively.

Amy breaks down the research, shares practical strategies, and shines a light on the often-overlooked building blocks that impact a child’s writing journey. Teachers will walk away with actionable tips and a deeper understanding of how transcription skills influence cognitive load, executive functioning, and writing fluency.

Key Takeaways:

• Why automaticity in transcription is non-negotiable for freeing up cognitive resources for composition
• How explicit handwriting instruction supports both reading and writing fluency
• The connection between the writing brain and reading brain
• Practical ways teachers can integrate transcription skill-building into their literacy block

Resources Mentioned:

• The Not-So-Simple View of Writing model
• The Handwriting Collaborative
• Handedness Research Institute
• National Handwriting Association
• University of Iowa (Clifter and Lifter materials)
• “Strengthening the Mind’s Eye” by Dr. Virginia Berninger
• “Handwriting in a Modern World” by William Van Cleave
• Dr. Berninger’s PALS program
• Informal assessments by Linda Farrell and Michael Hunter (Readsters)

Practical tools Amy recommended:

• Short pencils
• Plastic sleeves/page protectors with 3-lined paper inside
• Thin, short dry erase markers
• Appropriate writing utensils (soft lead pencils, crayons for early writers)
• Three-lined paper for handwriting until automaticity is achieved

Connect with Amy Siracusano:

• LinkedIn: Amy Siracusano
• Instagram: @amysiracusano
• Email: amysiracusano@gmail.com

Connect with Amy at Upcoming Conferences:

• Big Sky Literacy Summit
• The Reading League Conference
• Plain Talk About Literacy and Learning Conference

Connect with Me:

• Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom
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• Visit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.com
• Join The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership