From:

Subject:
Date:
To:

Christy K White christykwhite@verizon.net

Great Writing Course
June 20, 2016 at 10:30 PM
Jana Linenberger Jana.Linenberger@kellerisd.net

Hey Jana,
I wanted to tell you about this really great class Ive been taking this semester. As you know I started working on my Master in Education at
Texas A&M Commerce. I cant believe how much Ive already learned. One of the classes Im taking this summer is called Integrating Writing.
Ive learned about writing and its instruction, how to be reflective, writing assessment, and how I can incorporate these practices into my
teaching. Whats been really exciting is to hear how others have used the writing process, the stages of writing, and the writing workshop in
their classrooms. Here is a breakdown of some of the things Ive learned.

Stages of Writing
Prewriting - gathering ideas, choosing a topic, identifying a purpose for writing
Drafting - writing a rough draft, work on content and not revision
Revising - share in groups, have discussions, make changes
Editing - proofread, correct conventions
Publishing - final copy and share

6+1 Traits of Writing

Ideas - focused, clear, holds readers attention
Organization - order and structure is easy for the reader
Voice - speaks to the reader in a way that draws the reader in
Word Choice - uses words thats easy to understand and natural
Sentence Fluency - sentences flow and well built
Conventions - correct spelling, punctuation, grammar
Presentation - how it is presented to audience

Genres of Writing
Personal Writing
Descriptive Writing
Poetry Writing
Narrative Writing
Expository Writing
Biographical Writing
Persuasive Writing
Writing Across the Curriculum (I cant wait to learn more about this!)

Weve also been reading a book called On Writing Well by William Zinsser. His writing is interesting and easy to read. It would be a great read
for anyone who has to write (and we all do) in his or her profession. He has some pretty good advise for all of us.
Id be happy to sit down and talk about any of this with you sometime. Maybe we can get together soon. I hope you are enjoying your
summer!
Sincerely,
Christy White