Join Michelle Bence and Miriam Ramzy for a 4-part series digging into the Layers of Writing. Together, we will unpack the research around the complexities of writing, align the Layers of Writing with the ELAL curriculum, and share many strategies and tools that you can carry into your classrooms to support the writing development of your learners.
January 22, 2025 (afternoon, in-person)
In our first gathering, we will provide an overview of how writing develops. We will share a Layers of Writing framework, explaining how each core skill builds upon the next, driven by purpose. Additionally, we will discuss the different roles the layers play in facilitating and enhancing flow. The final topic will be to dig into handwriting, a foundational writing layer from K-6.
February 25, 2025 (afternoon, in-person)
This second session will target what is often considered another foundation of writing (and reading): spelling and word study. We will unpack the developmental progression
of Word Study and dig into how this layer of writing supports written production and output. Examining key components of word study teaching, we will outline word study strategies that can be easily introduced in the classroom to support students in mobilizing their ideas to the page.
March 19, 2025 (afternoon, in-person)
Together, let’s dig into how sentence structure develops from simple to complex, helping writers better express their ideas in more engaging ways. We will also look at vocabulary instruction, and how we can use academic language to build out more complex sentences.
April 9, 2025 (morning, in-person)
Looking at the most common text structures in school, we will share ways in which we can scaffold writing practice, for all students, including reluctant writers. Finally, we will conclude the series by considering how The Layers of Writing can come together in a purposeful writing environment, where all students experience support and success through the writing process.