Often student writing is not held to the same high standards that student work is in many of the other subjects. Here are a few reasons why: 1. Writing is an art. There is not an easy answer key for the writing teacher. 2. The way writing is taught can often seem esoteric to children. [...]
Should you teach thesis statements? If so, in what grade should you teach thesis statements? Hey, are thesis statements even important? Most people don’t really understand what a thesis statement is, and even the people who do know what a thesis statement is don’t really understand why it is important. Until a few years ago, [...]
You and your students have worked hard on writing all year… and now it’s time to make sure it gets all the credit it deserves. Sometimes mandated writing rubrics can have harsh consequences… because sometimes fantastic writing misses the mark when it comes to the rubric. The goal here is to not only to improve [...]
Here are sentiments against teaching the five-paragraph essay. (Whew… these people were hot under their collar!) • In High School, I was “taught” to write five-paragraph essays (and when I say “taught,” I mean “forced.”) The five-paragraph essay was the only form allowed in Sophomore English class. • I hope it’s not taught anymore. • -my daughter hated [...]
What Exactly is an “Essay?” The term “essay,” can be a little confusing to many students (and teachers.) What exactly is an essay? There is also a little confusion as to when and how to teach essay writing. The truth is much of what students write in both elementary and middle school can be [...]