Effects of an Online Writing Tool to Improve Scores on State Writing Tests

• In Event: 31.091 - Roundtable Session 10
  In Roundtable Session: 31.091-13 - Evaluating P–12 Programs and Strategies

Abstract

This study includes quantitative analysis of student test scores on state standardized Writing tests in 5th, 8th and 10th grades. Findings, to date, indicate promising outcomes associated with student use of online Writing tool called Write to Learn developed by Pearson Education. The sample for this study includes 90 schools in a large, suburban school district in the southeast, with approximately 9,000-12,000 students at each analyzed grade level. The results from this study adhere to the What Works Clearinghouse evidence standards and can provide not only an example of the benefits of writing preparation on standardized tests but also a research design allowing other districts to replicate the study to evaluate similar programs in their local setting.

Authors

• Melinda J. Mollette, Gwinnett County Public Schools

• Jewelle L. Harmon, Gwinnett County Public Schools