Writing is a very complex skill, which can cause great difficulty and frustration for many children. Like learning to read, teaching writing is most effective when it is broken down and explicitly and systematically taught.

Students in this 1:1 class will receive direct spelling instruction using phonics knowledge to map words orthographically. This includes prefixes, suffixes, root words and looking at the meaning behind the parts of a word. 

Students will also receive direct instruction at whatever level of writing is needed, whether it's writing a simple sentence, practicing writing different types of sentences (statements, questions etc.), writing paragraphs (including how to write a good topic sentence and supporting details), and much more. 

Writing topics will be designed around areas of interest in order to build knowledge, which supports vocabulary development and comprehension. Writing instruction is most successful when it is grounded in content areas, rather than a random selection of writing activities and reading comprehension passages. Writing cannot be taught in isolation of reading, so students will be working on both areas, but with a heavier focus on written expression. Eg. a student may be asked to read a story and to write a summary. 

The 1:1 format allows us to work on whatever skills are needed for them to be successful and confident writers and to work at the pace that suits their needs.

Depending on the age and focus of the lesson, students may use a whiteboard and marker, paper and pencil or a Google doc to complete writing tasks. For some students, learning how to use voice typing during our lessons may also be useful. 

This style of explicit writing instruction is effective for all students, but especially those who have specific learning disabilities, such as dyslexia or specific learning disabilities in writing.