Approach To Teaching Writing

Submitted by Mara Trager, Literacy Specialist Grades 3-5

At Dwight-Englewood School, we focus on the development of the whole child by integrating evidence-based instructional practices that support student learning. Our approach to teaching writing is grounded in research that explores how students learn to write, what they need to learn, and why strong writing skills are essential. This research highlights that learning is supported by several interconnected systems, including a responsive approach, activating prior knowledge, a supportive environment, and social skill development (Darling-Hammond et al, 2020). Below are some examples of how these writing practices come alive in our classrooms every day!

A Responsive Approach
You may see…
● Partner discussions that encourage students to share perspectives, experiences, and background knowledge
● Teachers modeling writing through clear, predictable lesson structures
● Lessons that intentionally build content knowledge and academic vocabulary
● Classes reading and analyzing a diverse range of mentor texts

Activating Prior Knowledge
You may see…
● Lessons beginning with a brief review of the previous day’s lesson
● Independent writing tasks that directly connect to the day’s instruction
● Students building writing stamina by drafting longer pieces and strengthening their grammar and conventions

A Supportive Writing Community
You may see…
● Students writing at their individual ability levels and pace
● Teachers providing daily opportunities to write for a variety of purposes and audiences, and often student-selected topics
● Explicit instruction designed to meet the diverse needs of learners

Social Skill Development
You may see…
● Students collaborating with partners to research shared topics
● Peers revising and editing each other’s work
● Students reflecting on their own learning and grow as writers

At Dwight-Englewood, we foster strong writers by building meaningful relationships and creating supportive, diverse classroom communities. Through intentional instruction and authentic writing experiences, students develop the skills, confidence, and independence needed to become thoughtful communicators and lifelong learners.