Writing to Learn: Effective Writing Instruction Strategies for English Learners (K–12)

Writing to Learn: Effective Writing Instruction Strategies for English Learners (K–12)

Writing is more than just a communication skill – it’s a powerful vehicle for language development and academic growth across all subject areas, especially for English Learners (ELs). Research consistently shows a strong correlation between writing practice and language acquisition. Because writing requires learners to actively generate language – choosing words, forming sentences, organizing ideas –…

Structured Writing vs. Free Writing: Impacts on Learning and Creativity

Structured Writing vs. Free Writing: Impacts on Learning and Creativity

Imagine Two Classrooms In one, students are scribbling eagerly in journals, chasing their own ideas with no set prompts. In another, a teacher projects a model paragraph on the board, and children highlight the topic sentence and supporting details in color-coded hues. These scenes illustrate a long-running debate in writing instruction: free writing vs. structured writing….

Scaffolds and Writing Frames Are the Training Wheels of Great Writing

Scaffolds and Writing Frames Are the Training Wheels of Great Writing

How Pressto Supports K–12 Students on the Journey from Dependent to Independent Writers Learning to write is like learning to ride a bike. No one starts off pedaling confidently down the road. There’s wobbling, hesitation, and sometimes a bit of fear. That’s why we start with training wheels — they provide balance and support until…

The Science of Writing in Math

The Science of Writing in Math

Research Insights and Pressto’s Innovative Approach Introduction: Writing – An Underutilized Power Tool in Math Learning Writing isn’t just for English class. In fact, educational research has shown that writing can significantly boost learning in content areas like math and science. When students write about math concepts or problem-solving processes, they are effectively “learning by…

Beyond Reading: Embracing Writing as a Critical Component of Literacy

Beyond Reading: Embracing Writing as a Critical Component of Literacy

Literacy has long been viewed as the cornerstone of education, a gateway to personal and professional success. But while the Science of Reading has revolutionized how we teach students to decode and comprehend text, it’s crucial to recognize the equally important role of writing in literacy. The Inextricable Link Between Reading and Writing As Dr….