Catching up from 2-12

Writing in the Content Area

Reader Response   Chapter 1

Content Area Writing Text

 

Reading and writing have been an academic “dynamic duo” since the first written word. While reading as a skill that can be learned, comprehension is yet something altogether different. Comparatively speaking, writing is also a skill that can be learned yet the ability to write well and effectively is also quite different.

 

Chapter 1 in Content Area Writing alludes to a writing crisis. I’m not sold on the crisis piece but I think the six link chain of implications is worth noting.

 

1.      Writing helps the students get more actively engaged in subject matter.

2.      Writing helps students meet state standards and pass high-stakes standardized tests.

3.      Writing helps students gain access to further education.

4.      Writing paves the way to fulfilling employment.

5.      Writing prepares young people for involved, active citizenship.

6.      Writing is part of a better life.

In my history as a teacher (5 years now) I can say with the utmost amazement that handwriting and spelling are not as highly respected as they were when I was a student. The middle school students that I work with seem unconcerned about their spelling or if anyone can read their handwriting. It breaks my heart to hear students complain that,

“Spelling shouldn’t count….this is Science class!” 

Crisis….probably not, but frustrating to say the least. Most students these days use writing software on their PC’s to correct spelling and basic grammar errors. These are tools to catch what they missed in their written assignments. Not tools used to write their assignments. If anything, that is where the crisis may be found. It’s an unhealthy reliance on spell check to fix their writing. The details of their “learning” of these skills should be taught in K – 5. There is where they learn to write, spell, group ideas into proper paragraphs in grammatically correct formats. By the time students reach middle school and high school these tasks should be as common and well honed as breathing and walking.

 

My content area is science where spelling can be a challenge. Clarity and neatness should not be.

I agree with Daniels, Zemelman, and Steineke when they point out that accurate writing skills will pave the way to fulfilling employment. Fact of the matter is, well honed writing techniques will pave the way to everything. Good writers with good writing skills are respected and needed in all walks of life. Shorthand is great if you are taking notes for your own personal use. Abbreviations and slang fall into place when it is for the writers eyes only. However, Take inventory of the world around you and see how much written word is out there. Billboards, street signs, directions, everywhere you look there are words and writing helping the human race through their day.

 

Students need to be passionate of the writing quality. Not only in the writing class of the semester but in all courses they may take throughout their academic career. Ask any college student about writing skill. It becomes a true test once you reach the college ranks.