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Writer’s Stylus™ helps teachers develop writers—effective communicators
who know far more than just how and where to use commas and quotation
marks.
The three traits of effective writing instruction characterize
the Writer’s Stylus™ program:
1. Authenticity
Effective instructional writing programs actually
teach students how
to write well. Many programs drill mechanics and emphasize grammar,
punctuation
and sentence structure. While those are important, Writer’s Stylus™
engages students
in using these elements within meaningful writing. Actual writing
becomes the basis
for revision and improvement as students apply knowledge of grammatical
elements
and quality writing to meaningful expressions of their own thoughts.
2. Integration
Effective instructional writing programs provide
complete instruction.
Research reveals that anything taught in isolation—that is, apart
from the context in
which it has influence—prevents transfer of that knowledge to
actual practice
because students become accustomed to only using the knowledge
or skills within
the classroom context. Writer’s Stylus™ connects all concepts
and skills to actual
student writing, integrating instruction and practice and empowering
transfer to
widened contexts.
3. Teacher Expertise Effective instructional writing programs
are taught by effective
writing teachers.
What makes a writing teacher effective?
- :: effective writing teachers can produce quality writing
themselves
- :: effective writing teachers can coach other writers to improved
results
- :: effective writing teachers can accurately assess writing and
identify elements of excellence and potential improvement
- :: effective writing teachers use effective combinations of sound
instructional methods
Successful writing instruction requires teachers who are well-equipped
to teach writing—those who know how to craft writing themselves
and know how to guide young writers
to such practice. The teacher, not any textbook or materials,
makes the difference.
Writer’s Stylus™ equips teachers to develop young writers, not
just students with
adequate writing skills.
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