Teaching writing can feel challenging in today's world of short attention spans and AI-generated text—but it doesn't have to be! In this encouraging episode, author and professor Nancy McCabe joins host Vicki Davis (Cool Cat Teacher) to share six creative strategies that help students rediscover the joy of writing.

From 10-minute free writing sessions to outdoor field trips and imitating great authors, Nancy shares proven ideas that work for every age. She also explains why mistakes and "messy drafts" are not problems to fix—but signs of authentic thinking and growth.

Sponsored by Speakable — the AI tool that helps language and reading teachers assign speaking tasks, give instant feedback, and save time grading. Learn more at www.coolcatteacher.com/speakable.

🎙️ Listen now to discover:

Why free writing unlocks creativity and confidence
How turning points and sensory details make stories come alive
Ways to connect reading and writing through imitation
Why taking writing outside the classroom boosts engagement
How to embrace imperfection in the age of AI
Why writing is thinking—and how to help students believe it

Learn more and find show notes at www.coolcatteacher.com/e917

Spectator Out Loud: Jeff Fynn-Paul, Christopher Snowdon and Jo Deacon