Tools for Better Writing

Learning to write is relatively easy; learning to write well is a considerably more formidable task. It’s widely documented that technology can improve students’ writing skills, and applications for the classroom are constantly evolving. Here are two free and simple tools that have the potential to strengthen your students’ ability to write effectively.

Using Social Networks to Teach Literature

Megan Palevich of Middle School 101 has a must-see project for teachers who want to tap into students’ use of social networking to bring literary or historical people to life.

Streaming, Writing and Arithmetic

The writer, from Australia, argues for inclusion of digital media tools (the ones kids are already using) as a way to teach standards.

How Writers Can Learn From Documented Cases of Revision

This post originates from Poynter.org, a website for journalists. The writer references the revision processes of famous authors, and songwriters. Excerpt: "I know that it is possible to track changes in a story, but my general feeling is that the disappearance of hand-written revisions has been a loss to the writing and learning culture."

Does Digital Media Make Us Bad Writers?

An English professor and a linguist examine how digital media are transforming students’ writing and how writing itself is changing.

Picture This! Building Photo-Based Writing Skills

This is from the New York Times newspaper's learning network. In this lesson, students use photographs to practice writing, vocabulary and skimming skills to develop literacy and/or prepare for standardized tests. Details here.

Writing and Technology: Dealing With Ideas

The great thing about technology as far as writing is concerned is that we need never forget a brilliant idea.