Most educators intuitively understand the critical relationship between
thinking and writing: writing allows us to express what we think, but
the very act of writing spurs a process of exploration that changes our
thinking and helps us learn.
Teaching Writing in the Content Areas
examines nearly 30 years of research to identify how teachers can
incorporate writing instruction that helps students master the course
content and improve their overall achievement. Building on the
recommendations of the National Commission on Writing, authors Vicki
Urquhart and Monette McIver introduce four critical issues teachers
should address when they include writing in their content courses:
•
Creating a positive environment for the feedback and guidance students
need at various stages, including prewriting, drafting, revising, and
editing
• Monitoring and assessing how much students are learning through their writing
• Choosing computer programs that best enhance the writing process
• Strengthening their knowledge of course content and their own writing skills
The
authors also provide 35 classroom strategies, practices, and handouts
that teachers can easily implement in most subject areas or grade
levels. From prewriting guides and work sheets to instructional
guidance and analysis, the strategies offer realistic options to help
teachers tailor writing assignments and instruction to the needs of
each class.
Teaching Writing in the Content Areas is
more than a primer for teaching the mechanics of writing; it is a
research-based guide to regularly engaging students in writing that
pushes them to express themselves clearly, to explore new ideas, and to
become critical thinkers.
