writing process TEKS talk image

Knowledge and Skills Statement

Composition: listening, speaking, reading, writing, and thinking using multiple texts--writing process. The student uses the writing process recursively to compose multiple texts that are legible and uses appropriate conventions.

Use a rubric to monitor students' progress. This rubric can be used while students are developing drafts and when they have completed final drafts.

Sample rubric:

  1. The student is unable to develop an idea with specific and relevant details even with adult assistance.
  2. The student is able to develop an idea OR relevant details with adult assistance.
  3. The student is able to develop an idea and relevant details inconsistently.
  4. The student is able to develop an idea and relevant details consistently.

Note:

If students need a graphic organizer to scaffold this SE, the rubric can still be used to assess students’ ability to accurately complete the graphic organizer.

Once students have planned their writing, the next step in the writing process is to start organizing thoughts into sentences. This initial draft is often messy. Students should not focus on writing in a polished manner during this stage.
Careful selection of facts and details should be incorporated in students' writing, and details should be directly related to the main topic. Students should select facts and details that help the reader better understand the ideas the students are trying to convey.

Research

Graham, S., Bollinger, A., Booth Olson, C., D’Aoust, C., MacArthur, C., McCutchen, D., & Olinghouse, N. (2012). Teaching elementary school students to be effective writers: A practice guide (NCEE 2012–4058). Washington, DC: National Center for Education Evaluation and Regional Assistance, Institute of Education Sciences, U.S. Department of Education. Retrieved from https://ies.ed.gov/ncee/wwc/Docs/PracticeGuide/writing_pg_062612.pdf

Summary: The four recommendations in the What Works Clearinghouse practice guide, "Teaching Elementary School Students to Be Effective Writers," encourage teachers to help students use writing flexibly and effectively in communicating their ideas.