Writing Strategies for Response Writing

Each writing assignment  will have an accompanying grammar/ punctuation lesson in this course. Students will apply their learning in this class to their writing and submit written assignments for feedback and revisions on the mechanics. After making revisions, they will re-submit to Teacher Dominique!

Learners  will write paragraphs following each lesson to show understanding of the how to use proper grammar, parts I’d speech, transition words and phrases that add sentence variety and coherence in their writing; while observing subject verb agreement and improving word choice. 

Teaching students to use the RACE writing strategy or IBC writing strategy helps them use it independently; taking stressful writing our of the way for you and your students.

Gradual ease into the RACE/IBC writing strategy generates results! Here's how: 

#1 Model RACE/IBC. Start by completing some whole class exercises and model for students exactly what RACE /IBC looks like. 

We read a text together as a class, and then write the response on the whiteboard. I liked to have students write along with me as well, and then glue the example into their journals.

#2 Get clear on vocabulary. I teach the key vocabulary and provide examples of each. I add these words to our anchor chart. I also have a RACE/IBC resource that students use to refer to the process.

#3 Chunk the assignment. Before I turn students loose to write an entire RACE paragraph or IBC essay writing , I break it down step by step. 

The first time students work independently, I have them just restate the question or writing prompt. Then the next time, have them restate the question and answer the question or writing prompt, and continue building on the next element over time.

#4 Provide feedback to students. I don’t grade every single  writing sample, but students  get feedback as they learn.

I do this in a few ways. I check for understanding during writing time and ask questions to check-in with students. I  call on students over to provide quick feedback on their writing. Or I  call students for a small group where I review the writing pieces and assist.
Covered:

Day 1 Intro to R.A.C.E. and review parts of speech     

Day 2 Write a short answer response and review transitional word and phrases

Day 3 Write an extended response and review how to elaborate using revising

Day 4 Practice R.A.C.E. and IBC add special details such a quotes, statistics, anecdotes 

During each class, I will provide direct literacy and writing instruction. Students will develop a deeper understanding of  the fundamental spelling rules, word recognition, correct letter formation and sentence mechanics. Each live class is designed to be incredibly engaging and interactive for each student, providing many opportunities for different senses to ensure different areas of your child's brain is engaged in the learning process. 

I will provide instruction utilizing reading strategies for first through sixth grade-level to close learning gaps and accelerate writing. Students will be supported and challenged by me throughout each class based on their individual needs. Although each student's needs are different, families should notice improvement in their child's reading, writing, letter formation or spelling abilities after just a few classes.