Increasing Writing Performance of Seniors Placed at Risk Through Goal Setting in a Creativity-Centered Classroom

• In Event: Roundtable Session 18
  In Roundtable Session: Applications and Innovations for Action Research in Schools

Abstract

This action research study examined the effects of implementing goal-setting strategies and emphasizing creativity, through an interactive and dynamic learning environment, on urban students placed at-risk of failure in a 12th grade writing classroom. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected and analyzed through pre-and post surveys, writing rubrics, grades, weekly goal sheets, pre-and post focus groups, and teacher-researcher observations. Data indicate that explicit rubrics connected to goals in a creative climate positively improved the independent writing performance of students as well as increased the number of students attaining passing grades. This study will assist educators as they design learning environments and utilize strategies to teach writing, particularly for academically struggling adolescents who have been placed at risk of failure.

Authors

• Brittany Estrada, Hope Through Housing Foundation

• Susan R. Warren