Collins Writing

 During my first year as an English Teacher, I totally dropped the ball on writing. While I have written about some useful writing strategies for the classroom, I wanted to share about the writing program that has made writing a staple in my classroom: The Collins Writing program. 

The overall structure of the Collins Writing program is extremely simple and clear which allows for easy implementation. There are five types of writing that can be used at any point in the classroom:

1. Type 1 involves setting a timer and requiring students to write a specific number of items or lines. Their work is not graded for content correctness or accurate grammar and punctuation. Students can guess if they do not know the correct answer. The point of this style of writing is to brainstorm and get ideas onto paper. Examples: Write 4 lines in 3 minutes about your favorite season. List 5 items in 1 minute that you noticed on the way to school. I begin every class with these writing prompts, and they really engage my students. If they have met the criteria within the time frame, I stamp their weekly journal sheet. 

2. Type 2 is mostly the same as Type 1, with one major distinction. In Type 2 writing, students are graded on content correctness. Most of the time, a quiz grade is awarded. The assignment still requires set criteria and a time limit and is not graded based on grammar and punctuation. Examples: In 4 minutes, write 3 things that the featured character did to display that they were nervous. I often use Type 2 to assess reading comprehension. 

3. In Type 3 writing, students are given 1-3 FCAs (Focus Correction Areas). The Collins Writing program linked below provides very specific FCAs for specific grade levels and styles of writing. Students will write an opinion, informational, persuasive, or narrative work and will then correct it for FCAs. Some examples include a hook, sequential organization, a specific number of examples, definitions, facts, opinions, and more. By limiting the number of FCAs, students can pay specific attention to the parameters that will be graded. Students are encouraged to read their work aloud. Example: Are video games a good way to spend your time? Include a hook and 3 facts to support your thoughts. 

4. Type 4 encourages students to peer edit their work. After writing a Type 3 work, students peer edit and write a final draft. 

5. Type 5 final involves publishing and sharing work after proofreading and writing several drafts. 

I appreciate the structure and organization of this program and my students have thoroughly enjoyed trying each style of writing. 

Check out the official website for the Collins Writing Program: https://collinsed.com/approach/writing-across-the-curriculum/