KDE and CTL launch new state writing resource: Teaching the Writer: What Students Need

November 6, 2007

CTL is launching a new writing resource data DVD with Writing Cluster Leaders throughout Kentucky. CTL, which manages the CATS Writing Portfolio, developed the DVD, called Teaching the Writer: What Students Need, on behalf of the Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) to help teachers approach writing by asking their students to see themselves as lifelong writers. Teaching the Writer encourages teachers to view writing as natural to learning, not as an isolated event or only as it relates to CATS writing portfolio requirements.

Elizabeth Dick, formerly CTL’s CATS Writing Portfolio Consultant, led the design and development of the DVD in cooperation with the KDE, and says that Teaching the Writer is a resource which raises the important question, “Are we actually teaching writers or merely focusing on perfecting pieces?” She advises, “Schools and districts seeking frank answers about what to do to improve students’ writing performance need to use this DVD to initiate serious discussion about current instructional practice across the curriculum, K-12, and next steps to consider. “

Linda Leugers, CTL’s CATS Writing Portfolio Consultant, is leading the DVD orientation sessions statewide, and is happy to provide information on the project to school district personnel. The data DVD will be in all Kentucky public schools by November 9, and may be duplicated freely. Kentucky teachers and others who would like to receive the DVD should contact their school Writing Cluster Leader or District Assessment Coordinator to request a copy.

The entire DVD, transcripts and Viewing Guide can be accessed for free via the KDE's website.