course component
Beginning to Write
(Grade K-5)
Karen Valdes
Subject Area: Language Arts
Course Title: Beginning to Write
Course Requirements: Video Program and Assessment
Course Description: This course assists teachers in learning the effective use of writing elements such as organization, punctuation, and capitalization to help students progress from one level of writing to the next. The process of planning, drafting, revision, proofreading and publishing is explained and demonstrated.
Course Objectives:
Participants will gain awareness level knowledge about:
1. The stages of writing development
2. The role of letters and sounds in learning to write
3. Examples of purposeful writing
4. The role and use of organizational strategies and mechanics
5. Writing as a process
6. Teaching conventional spelling through focused instruction
7. Writing assessments
Course Assessment:
A certificate of completion will be awarded to participants who successfully complete the online assessment after viewing the video program.
Alignment with Standards:
National Board for Professional Teaching Standards
Mid-continent Regional Educational Laboratory Standards
Professional Development Points: 2
Additional points may be earned through completion of follow-up activities.
Additional Helps: Follow-up activities and resources
It is recommended that participants in the video course complete follow-up activities to deepen their knowledge and skills. When these activities are completed in accordance with local staff development guidelines, participants may be able to earn additional professional development credit. Contact your local staff development office for determining how you might receive credit for completing the video program and additional credit for completing follow-up activities.
Follow-up Activity 1: Narrative Form
Follow-up Activity 2: Expository Form
Follow-up Activity 3: Looking at Student Work
