In LISD, writing is viewed as an integral part of a balanced literacy program where reading and writing are complementary processes.

Writing is a complex life-skill which requires instruction in the use of higher level thinking skills.

Instruction will occur through the writing process and be guided by on-going assesssment of individual student needs.

Writing will be taught daily (K-5) in a safe environment where students can freely express original thoughts and ideas while addressing a variety of authentic purposes and audiences. Writing will be included in content area instruction.

Oral communication must be modeled and taught in order to master written communication (they write as they speak.)

Your child will be encouraged to use "invented spelling" (i.e. bcz for because and skl for school) in words that have not been covered in the spelling curriculum. I will not correct errors on most papers, but will ask students to interpret their writing when needed. Studies show that when students are worried about spelling words correctly, the flow of ideas becomes inhibited. Spelling will be emphasized when editing a paper for final copy to be displayed.