Write on : improving story writing skills in a grade three classroom
Date
2004
Authors
Berkner, Gail
University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Education
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education, 2004
Abstract
Utilizing action research methodology~ this study addresses the following research
question: What were the effects of professional development experiences with a
"balanced literacy" approach to teaching story writing over a three month period on
Grade 3 students' writing development? The study reviews methods of writing
instruction, in particular the writing process as described by Donald Murray; conditions
for effective writing; direct versus indirect instruction; scaffolded learning as defined by
Vygotsky; and the connection between reading and writing. A case study design was used
to investigate the impact of this program on three individual students with different levels
of writing development. Data were collected from audio taped writing conferences with
individual students; videotaped class sessions showing various teaching strategies were
used; samples of students' writing were collected; and a researcher's journal was used to
record teaching strategies, students' responses, and the researcher's thoughts, feelings,
and reflections. Four themes emerged as relevant to effective writing instruction in a
primary classroom: provision ofteacher support (scaffolded learning); use of quality
children's literature to help students understand story structure and the qualities of good
writing; use of a graphic story organizer; and the importance of using metacognitive talk
to instill in students an ability to demonstrate and understand their development as
writers. The study concludes with a discussion regarding the role of professional
development experiences.
Description
ix, 120 leaves ; 29 cm. --
Keywords
English language -- Study and teaching (Primary) , Children -- Writing -- Study and teaching (Primary) , Creative writing (Primary education)