Pre-Writing Tools and Templates
"Thinking with the end of a pen"
Pre-Writing Tools and Templates
Use of Concept Maps for Writing Organization
When organizing thoughts, facts, details, examples and quotes for writing, a concept map can be very beneficial planning tool. It can allow thought to flow clearly and logically, while showing how ideas are connected. It is a powerful tool for generating and categorizing ideas before starting the writing process. As directed by teacher, individually, with a partner, a small group and/or class, use a concept map to initiate the writing process.
Use of Storyboards for Writing Organization
A storyboard can serve as a framework to help sequence thoughts and ideas, before beginning the writing process. Pulling together various parts and seeing the big picture, it is easier to understand how concepts can connect and work together to create the whole. By visualizing the writing project as a whole and in sequence, a writing roadmap is produced. As directed by teacher, individually, with a partner, a small group and/or class, use a storyboard to initiate the writing process.
Use of Analogy and Metaphors for Writing Enhancement
Writing experts claim that analogies and metaphors can make your writing more personal, memorable and persuasive. By creating new and interesting comparisons, new-fangled perspectives and vivid images can be generated in the minds of others. As directed by teacher, (individually, with a partner, a small group and/or class), create possible analogies and metaphors for enhancing your writing topic.
Wait, Rewrite and Review
A good writer creates drafts when writing. Many expert writers claim that allowing a day or so between drafts can generate a "fresh look" and allow for a better rewrite. Studies have also shown that even a strong writer can benefit from the process of peer review.
Use of Rubrics for Writing Assessment
Scoring rubrics have become a common method for evaluating student writing. However, reviewing a writing rubric in the pre-writing stage helps communicate and clarify expectations and avoid common writing pitfalls. Expert writers claim that using rubrics when revising drafts produces higher quality writing.
Click Here to Start Module. The gears provided on each module provide specific student learning and achievement research for the selected module strategy. Click on the gear to read and click on gear again to eliminate the research box retrieved. For more citation reference information, please refer to the Learning Connect Research Listings in the Teacher Menu located at the top of the page.
Learning is defined as . . .
"Neuroscience research confirms that practice improves performance. The brain processes new information by recalling it, and as the activity is practiced, the pathways get more efficient, and transmission speed increases. The pathways may become permanent as the skill becomes integral to the brain, and is held in long-term memory." (Jensen as stated by - Cercone, 2006.)