Feasibility, Usability, and Initial Promise of the WALL (Writing Across Levels of Language) Sentence-Writing Curriculum

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Abstract

Sentence writing is often overlooked in writing development and instruction. In response, we developed the Writing Across Levels of Language (WALL) curriculum for first grade. The thirty lessons in WALL address sentence creation, expansion, and multi-sentence writing with planning. We investigated the feasibility, usability, and initial promise with seven teachers from two schools who implemented the lessons. Data included lesson feedback forms, focus groups, a survey, and classroom observations. Results revealed strong aspects of usability, including lesson design, appropriateness for first grade, and opportunities for practice. In terms of feasibility, the lessons often exceeded their allotted time. Teachers reported that students’ writing, their confidence, and their motivation improved. The implications for revision and future work will be discussed.

Authors

• David Coker, University of Delaware

• Kristen D. Ritchey, University of Delaware