Writing to Learn: Article Response

Knipper and Duggan made some very valid points throughout this article. Being a student who has always found writing to be the most helpful form of learning, I was relieved to find out writing to learn is being encouraged through several different types of learning applications. My most negative classroom experiences growing up involved textbook after textbook and slide after slide. Although reading is an important facet of the learning process, writing is equally as, if not more, important. I like that the article stresses that writing is an ongoing, never ending learning process. I wish that i had done more writing throughout school than I was required. While reading this article, I realized that the reason I probably hadn't was the role of assessment. Because extensive student writing can be a pain to grade, many teachers avoided writing assignments. With the help of rubrics, I hope to be a teacher who encourages writing in every aspect of learning. I feel that many students hear the word, 'writing' and subconsciously correlate it with 'research.' Writing does not have to be viewed as a tedious process. It should be taught in a manner in which students can view writing as a fun, creative way to demonstrate self expression. My best English teacher in high school made writing a rewarding process. She allowed us to make our own decisions and mistakes and, in return, provided consistent feedback, examples, and practice.

I like that this article pointed out the different ways writing can be applied in the learning process. Checklists, guided writing, learning lots, etc. can only benefit a student's comprehension. Comprehension and expression lie hand in hand. Having the ability to think about and express new ideas in a critical and creative manner will not only make students feel better prepared, but more creatively connected to what is being learned.