Author Archives: alicia

No matter what a student thinks of their writing ability, we have to show them they all have the right to write. More than that, we have to teach students the value of their words and inspire them to share them. We need to do our part in developing critical thinkers. If we view educationContinue reading “The Right to Write”

Students often feel like the picture above. It’s our job to empower them so they feel… THIS EXCITED ABOUT WRITING When you can’t say “you’re a writer, kid” anymore, try these ways to make students feel like they’re writers: Assign a variety of genres An article written by Ann David discusses the versatility of writingContinue reading “You Are a Writer, Kid.”

A good teacher is still a student. Education is a continuous cycle without an age limit; you don’t get to 60 years old and somehow know all of the answers. I guess one of the most important lessons is understanding that principle: we are always still learning.  If you’re a working teacher, you are mostContinue reading “WWJD: What Would Jim Do”

“I don’t need writing,” they’ll say. Kids, man… such know- it- alls. Nope, not about this. Tell them everyone needs writing, and show them with authentic writing. When they’re fighting you about writing, go the authentic way and remember: There is more than one way to do this We are empowering students There will beContinue reading “Dear Future Teacher”

Did you know that writing is NOT just about five paragraph essays and hamburger paragraphs? You probably don’t believe me, but it’s true. To be fair, I also had trouble believing this. Think of how many times you wrote today. Even stupid little notes to remind yourself not to forget to bring shoes or theContinue reading “Research Papers, Grocery Lists, and Starbucks Cups: It’s All Relevant”

I think a big challenge that writing teachers face while preparing students to be effective writers in college and in their lives after school is the whole idea of test preparation. It’s illogical for curriculum to be designed around a test that will not impact their lives outside of the one test day. Instead, curriculumContinue reading “Challenges as Writing Teachers”

The citation gap is the one of the most relevant gap that I have come across. I had a less than traditional high school experience, but when I finally entered my district high school my senior year, I expected to be fully prepared to enter college. However, when I started my college career at BinghamtonContinue reading “Gaps in Education”