August 15, 2008
a publication of You-Can-Teach-Writing.com
Vol. 1 No. 4, August 15, 2008
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In This Issue:
Recommended reading on teaching writingTeaching boys to write
PSAT for eighth graders in the works
A note from Linda
Recommended reading on teaching writing
I found a copy of Writing Better: Effective Strategies for Teaching Students with Learning Difficulties by Steve Graham and Karen R. Harris, at my public library.Although the authors focus on late elementary and middle school LD students, their practical research-based recommendations are appropriate at any level and for any student.
I have used many of the strategies Graham and Harris recommend. The strategies worked with bright college students without making them feel like dummies. Many of the authors' suggestions are for hands-on activities that appeal to boys who typically lag behind girls in verbal skills.
The book includes chapters on persuasive writing, descriptive writing, comparison-contrast writing, and reports. The authors can write well, and they have a sense of humor. You'll find the book easy to read and easy to apply.
Teaching boys to write
Boys generally are less verbal than girls. Most tests find them lagging far behind girls in writing skills. Veteran teachers (like me) say boys are less able to spot patterns in written material. That means they you need to be diligent about teaching pattern recognition in reading and teaching a pattern for writing.Boys also have less patience with verbal work. They need quick feedback. That's why they can spend hours on a video game but only 5 minutes on a writing assignment. Get them into writing quickly by giving writing prompts that include a thesis statement.
To teach all students successfully, employ teaching practices that don't unduly favor the verbal students, most of whom are female.
PSAT test for 8th graders being planned
In 2010, the College Board plans to release a test designed to let schools know which students should be taking AP and honors classes.Details are sketchy yet, but the test will cover math, critical reading, and writing skills.
A note from Linda
I hope you had a good summer and are eagerly anticipating teaching again this fall.My web site remodeling job is nearly done. There are still a few pages with broken links, but the worst is over. I hope.
I will be so very glad when I can get back to creating new content for you again. I have a long list of topics I want to share with you, such as
Sample essays
Sample course objectives
Tips for teaching grammar for writing
Resources for teaching writing
The next issue of Writing Points will be published Sept. 15, no providence preventing.
Until then, keep your pencil sharp!
Linda
I would love to hear from you. Please use the form on the web site for your initial message. After I know you are you and not some dreadful spammer, I will "white list" you so we can exchange e-mails without going through the site.