Closing the Writing Gap

This book explains seven critical steps to improve children's writing, training teachers to be expert in how pupils learn to write, with practical strategies and classroom activities. It is designed to help teachers seize opportunities across the curriculum to teach the critical writing process.

Format: Hardback
Length: 198 pages
Publication date: 17 May 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book is a valuable resource for teachers looking to improve their students' writing skills. It provides a detailed and systematic approach to teaching writing, covering seven critical steps that are essential for developing effective writing abilities in children. Despite the perceived naturalness of writing, many school pupils struggle with it, which can have a significant impact on their academic and life success. The book aims to equip every teacher with the knowledge and skills necessary to teach writing with confidence, ensuring that all students can achieve their writing potential.

The book begins by exploring the history and 'science of writing, synthesizing the debates and presenting a wealth of usable evidence about how children develop most efficiently as successful writers. It trains teachers to be experts in how pupils learn to write, from the big picture of planning, editing, and revising their writing to the vital importance of grammar and spelling with accuracy. Highly practical strategies and easy-to-use classroom activities are included to help teachers seize opportunities across the curriculum every school day to teach the critical writing process.

One of the key strengths of the book is its focus on practical strategies that can be easily implemented in the classroom. It provides teachers with a step-by-step guide to teaching writing, including tips on how to plan effective writing lessons, engage students in writing activities, and provide feedback that promotes growth. The book also emphasizes the importance of using a variety of writing genres and formats to engage students and promote creativity.

Another important aspect of the book is its emphasis on the importance of collaboration and peer feedback in the writing process. It encourages teachers to create a supportive and inclusive classroom environment where students feel comfortable sharing their writing and receiving feedback from their peers. This not only helps students improve their writing skills but also fosters a sense of community and teamwork.

Closing the Writing Gap is a valuable resource for teachers at every stage of their career. It provides a comprehensive and systematic approach to teaching writing that is grounded in research and evidence-based practices. When used with Alex Quigley's other books on vocabulary and reading, it gives school leaders evidence-based approaches to literacy that can be applied across a school or a group of schools.

In conclusion, this comprehensive book is a must-read for teachers looking to improve their students' writing skills. It provides a detailed and systematic approach to teaching writing, covering seven critical steps that are essential for developing effective writing abilities in children. With its practical strategies, emphasis on collaboration, and evidence-based practices, Closing the Writing Gap is a valuable resource for teachers at every stage of their career.

Weight: 550g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032017679