The ability to write clearly and coherently is an essential skill for students in any given content area. According to Daniels et al., writing enables students to ‘connect with content and deepen their understanding of it’. The pedagogical strength of writing lies in the process that leads to the end product. It is this process-oriented approach to writing instruction that has been emphasized in multiple writing guides (e.g.see Lucy Kalkins’ works below).
With this shift in focus appeared a new concept in the writing literature entitled Writing Workshop. As I argued elsewhere, Writing workshop as an approach to teaching writing has been around for more than 30 years now, exactly since the publication of “The Art of Teaching Writing” by Lucy Calkins and “In The Middle” by Nancie Atwell.
Other proponents of this approach include celebrated scholars such as Donald Murray, Donald Graves, Katie Wood Ray, Jim burke, Ralph Fetcher, Penny Kittle to mention a few. Writing workshop provides a pedagogically useful model for teaching writing. The main emphasis of this approach is on “teaching the writer then the writing”.
Teaching Writing Books
The purpose of today’s post is to introduce you to some excellent books on teaching writing. The purpose is to help enrich your pedagogical and theoretical knowledge on the topic of teaching writing. I invite you to check out the list and share with us if you have other suggestions to add.
1- A Writer Teaches Writing Revised , by Donald M. Murray
This revised edition of Donald M. Murray’s seminal work, “A Writer Teaches Writing,” continues to shape the discourse in composition theory and teaching. Murray provides insightful guidance on nurturing writers, emphasizing the process of writing over mere product. His approach empowers educators to transform their teaching strategies, fostering a more dynamic and responsive writing classroom. This book is a staple for those serious about understanding the complexities and rewards of teaching writing effectively.
2- The Art of Teaching Writing , by Lucy McCormick Calkins
Lucy Calkins’ “The Art of Teaching Writing” has been revolutionary in its influence on language arts education, particularly through the integration of writing workshops. In this substantially updated edition, Calkins refines her original ideas, reflecting decades of research and classroom experience. This book offers a comprehensive framework for educators eager to cultivate prolific writers through innovative and tested methodologies. It’s a foundational resource for implementing effective writing workshops in educational settings.
3- Writing: Teachers & Children at Work, by Donald H Graves
Donald H. Graves’ updated classic, “Writing: Teachers & Children at Work,” reiterates his powerful message about the natural inclination children have towards writing, provided they are given the freedom and support they need. With new insights in the preface and an inspiring afterword by Mary Ellen Giacobbe, this edition deepens the reader’s understanding of the book’s impact on writing instruction. Graves’ research and methodologies offer invaluable insights into fostering a nurturing and productive writing environment for children.
4- One to One: The Art of Conferring with Young Writers, by Lucy Calkins, Amanda Hartman, Zoe Ryder White
‘Lucy Calkins, Amanda Hartman, and Zoe Ryder White demystify the process of conducting productive writing conferences in “One to One.” This book breaks down the art of conferring into manageable, replicable strategies that can dramatically enhance the way teachers interact with their students during writing time. It emphasizes consistent, principled interactions that help teachers effectively support and guide young writers in their developmental journey.
5- Write Beside Them: Risk, Voice, and Clarity in High School Writing, by Penny Kittle
Penny Kittle’s “Write Beside Them” is both a practical guide and an inspirational manifesto for teaching high school writing. Kittle shares her comprehensive approach to instruction that includes genre units, minilessons, and real-life conferences with students. This book addresses the challenges of teaching adolescents with a focus on encouraging risk-taking, finding voice, and achieving clarity in writing. It’s an essential resource for any educator committed to making a profound impact on their students’ writing skills.
6- About the Authors: Writing Workshop with Our Youngest Writers, by Katie Wood Ray, Lisa B. Cleaveland
Katie Wood Ray and Lisa B. Cleaveland’s “About the Authors” offers a delightful exploration into the world of young writers. This book shows how children in early grades can be encouraged to become ‘authors,’ emphasizing creative expression through a workshop approach. It provides a wealth of ideas for fostering a love of writing and book-making from an early age, making it a crucial tool for educators aiming to cultivate literary skills among young learners.
7- Crafting Digital Writing: Composing Texts Across Media and Genres, by Troy Hicks
Troy Hicks’ “Crafting Digital Writing” serves as a comprehensive guide for educators navigating the evolving landscape of digital composition. This book blends practical advice with insightful theory, offering a range of strategies for teachers, whether they’re digital natives or newcomers to digital literacy. Hicks delves into the craft of digital writing, encouraging educators to integrate technology in ways that resonate with students’ digital experiences, enhancing both engagement and learning outcomes.
8- Content-Area Writing: Every Teacher’s Guide, by Harvey Daniels , Steven Zemelman, Nancy Steineke
This guide by Daniels, Zemelman, and Steineke is an invaluable resource for teachers across all disciplines, emphasizing the integration of writing to enhance subject comprehension and student achievement. “Content-Area Writing” shows how structured writing exercises not only deepen understanding but can also be time-efficient. It’s designed to help educators incorporate writing seamlessly into their curriculum, proving that writing enhances learning in any subject area.
9- Because Digital Writing Matters, by National Writing Project, Danielle Nicole DeVoss, Elyse Eidman-Aadahl, Troy Hicks
This collaborative work addresses the unique challenges and opportunities of writing in the digital age. The authors offer a detailed exploration of digital writing, including how it diverges from more traditional forms and how to effectively integrate new technologies into teaching practices. “Because Digital Writing Matters” provides educators with practical strategies for improving students’ online writing abilities, making it a key resource for contemporary education professionals.
10- The Digital Writing Workshop, by Troy Hicks
In “The Digital Writing Workshop,” Troy Hicks extends traditional writing workshop methodologies into the digital realm, guiding educators on how to utilize technology to enrich their writing instruction. The book organizes its content around core principles of the writing workshop, such as student choice and active revision, and demonstrates how digital tools can enhance these practices. Hicks’ practical approach helps teachers maintain the integrity of writing instruction while embracing technological advancements.
11- Writing Workshop: The Essential Guide, by Ralph Fletcher , JoAnn Portalupi
Fletcher and Portalupi’s “Writing Workshop” is a must-have for educators looking to implement or improve a writing workshop in their classroom. This practical guide explains the foundational principles of the workshop model and offers concrete strategies for daily implementation. Covering the setup, operation, and maintenance of a successful workshop, this book is packed with actionable advice to help teachers foster a vibrant writing community.
12- Best Practices in Writing Instruction, by Steve Graham, Charles A. MacArthur, Jill Fitzgerald
This essential resource compiled by Graham, MacArthur, and Fitzgerald distills a range of evidence-based practices for teaching writing to students across all grade levels. “Best Practices in Writing Instruction” offers a thorough overview of effective strategies proven to develop writing skills, making it an indispensable guide for educators seeking to enhance their instructional techniques and support their students’ development as writers.
13- The Craft of Revision, by Donald M. Murray (Author)
Donald M. Murray’s “The Craft of Revision” reinvigorates the writing process by focusing on the critical role of revision. With his Pulitzer Prize-winning experience, Murray illuminates the often overlooked art of revising, presenting it as a creative and necessary phase of writing. This book invites students into the revision process with a welcoming and engaging approach, making it an essential read for anyone looking to refine their writing skills.
Final thoughts
The journey of teaching writing is one of perpetual growth and adaptation. The books in this collection equip educators with the tools and perspectives necessary to navigate this journey successfully. They offer a blend of practical strategies, innovative ideas, and foundational theories, tailored to diverse classroom settings and student needs. As you integrate these insights into your teaching practice, you will not only enhance your students’ writing abilities but also enrich your own professional development.
