Struggling Writers

Included in this guide are strategies for helping struggling secondary readers and writers so that they will develop the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) necessary to write successfully and have greater access to the general curriculum. It focuses on the writing process because research supports the efficacy of the writing process as a way of teaching poor writers to improve their skills. The professional development guide includes four sections of materials for workshop presenters: Overhead transparencies, which present key points and activities; Speaker's notes and activities to accompany the overhead transparencies; and Informational and notetaking handouts for participants. This guide also contains general adaptations (i.e., instructional design, instruction and curricula, behavioral support) and specific adaptations (e.g., drafting for struggling writers) that will benefit struggling readers and writers including students with disabilities. The adaptations are identified by a "Bright Ideas" symbol.