ERIC Number: ED393113
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 1994
Reference Count: N/A
Case Study: Program for Improving Writing Skills.
Thomas, Michael D.
A study examined methods for helping students earn their Literacy Passport, mandated for all students by the Virginia Department of Education, prior to entering the ninth grade, beginning in grade 6. Teachers were trained at North Accomack Elementary School (Virginia) in the use and implementation of the writing process and in writing to a prompt. The study used a writing assessment administered to all students in grades 5-8 during each 9-week marking period. To measure progress in writing, a writing predictor test was administered to students in grades 4-5. The results of the test were merged with the Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS) and a Degrees of Reading Progress Test given in conjunction with the ITBS to predict future results. The results were used as baseline data for the group. Results revealed a significant improvement, with the entire school division improving from 30% scoring above the cut-off score in 1993 to 65% scoring above the cut-off score in 1994. Findings suggest that after training, teachers more effectively taught the key elements needed by students in preparing for the writing test for their Literacy Passport, but more time and training will be required for all teachers to acquire the skills to effectively use the writing process in improving student writing. (CR)
Publication Type: Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Virginia