Book Study Series: The Writing Rope

Introduction

• Facilitator: Dr. Pam Kastner
• Guest Speaker: Joan Sedita, founder of Keys to Literacy
• Focus: Chapters 3 and 4 of "The Writing Rope"
• Technical Notes: Ensure correct names on screen for identification

Joan Sedita's Background

• Founder of Keys to Literacy
• Over 40 years in literacy education
• Developed literacy programs including keys to comprehension, vocabulary, beginning reading, and more
• Worked at Landmark School in literacy intervention
• Education: Master's from Harvard University, Bachelor's from Boston College

Key Topics from Previous Session

• Introduction to the Writing Rope framework
• Importance of teachers in all subjects contributing to writing instruction
• Types of writing: quick writes, content writing tasks, longer research tasks
• Discussed major meta-analyses on writing instruction
• Teaching principles such as gradual release and mentor models

Chapter 3: Transcription Skills

Overview

• Definition: Skills related to spelling, handwriting, and keyboarding
• Importance of fluency in transcription for freeing cognitive resources for higher-level writing

Spelling

• Explicit instruction is more effective than informal
• Phonics instruction critical for understanding alphabetic principle and spelling
• Multi-syllable word spelling and phonics scope and sequence

Handwriting

• Importance of teaching handwriting for overall writing quality
• Debate on print vs. cursive
• Teaching handwriting includes pencil grasp, letter formation, and legibility

Chapter 4: Writing Craft

Transcription vs. Composing

• Transcription: Focus on getting words on paper, involves spelling and handwriting
• Composing: Idea generation, organization, language use, and integration of comprehension

Writing Craft Elements

• Task, Audience, Purpose (TAP): Fundamental in decision making
• Importance of authentic audiences for engagement and motivation
• Adjusting tone and word choice for different audiences

Literary Devices

• Elements like voice, word choice, imagery, dialogue
• Mentor texts as a tool for teaching literary devices

Examples of Authentic Writing Tasks

• Students writing for real audiences such as blogs, letters to companies, or community members
• Real-life examples: Martha Payne’s blog on school lunches, letters to public figures and companies

Wrap-up and Resources

• Encouragement to use phonic scope and sequence, teaching aids, and templates available on Brooks Publishing’s site
• Additional resources at Keys to Literacy website

Questions and Answers

• Discussion on spelling challenges, phonics teaching, and handwriting stamina
• Importance of using adaptive technology for students with difficulties in transcription skills
• Feedback and checklists for providing targeted feedback to students on writing

This study session emphasized the importance of understanding both the mechanical aspects of writing (transcription) and the more creative, nuanced aspects (writing craft) to effectively teach and improve student writing.