Simmons College – Academic Year 2009
Using Writing to Close the Achievement Gap.
The course is highly practical in nature. Class time will be devoted to looking at student writing and determining strategies for responding to writers at various levels. We will also commit a significant amount of time to modeling and discussing teaching strategies (for both expressive and technical writing skills) that excite children, ensure participation, and change children’s attitudes about writing and reading. Course participants will develop and practice techniques to use in the classroom right away. This course is most relevant for teachers of grade 3 through college and is a four-credit course.
General Informatiion
The course will meet over three weekends. In between meetings, students are expected to spend at least five hours practicing the methods in a classroom setting.
Fundamental Questions
- What are the habits, strategies, and expectations of excellent teachers of language arts?
- What habits and strategies do teachers use to motivate struggling writers?
- What habits and strategies do teachers use to challenge prolific and talented writers?
- What specific skills do students need to become confident and excited readers and writers, and in what order should they be taught?
- Why is there an achievement gap, and how do the answers to the above questions help to close it?
Schedule
The course meets over three non-consecutive weekends.
First Weekend
Friday, TBD 4:00 – 8:30
Saturday, TBD 8:30 – 4:30
Second Weekend
Friday, TBD 4:00 – 8:30
Saturday, TBD 8:30 – 4:30
Third Weekend
Friday, TBD 4:00 – 8:30
Saturday, TBD 8:30 – 4:30
Register
Non-degree students contact the Office of Graduate Studies Admission at 617-521-2915.
Returning students register online at aarc.simmons.edu or contact the Office of the Registrar at 617-521-2111 for details.
Questions?
For Questions About the Course Contact:
David Meyers, President, ext. 302
(617) 844-1003 or email dmeyers@wex.org.
