Writing Coaching Support for K–6 Teachers

• In Event: The Dynamic Presence and Futures of Writing and Literacies

Abstract

Due to the lack of writing preparation programs and in-service writing opportunities, teachers often feel unprepared to teach writing. One way to mitigate feelings of unpreparedness is through coaching. Existing research indicates that teachers who receive coaching are more likely to use research-based practices. However, research within the realm of coaching writing is sparse. Through this study, I use survey responses from K-6 teachers and coaches to identify how coaches are supporting educators in teaching writing across content areas, stages of the writing process, and writing skills. Findings suggest that coaches support teachers in ELA writing but are less frequently supporting teachers in disciplinary learning for diverse learners in content areas. Implications for administrators and professional development agencies are discussed.

Authors

• Jadelyn A. Abbott, Weber State University
  Presenting Author

• Katherine Landau Wright, Boise State University
  Presenting Author