Chapter 1
Phonological and Phonemic Awareness and Emergent Literacy
Course: Elementary Education Multiple Subjects 7001
Subject: Elementary Education Teaching Reading Subtest 7002
Chapter: Written Expression
1. Overview
Systematic writing instruction follows a clear, logical progression in which foundational skills are taught before more complex ones. This sequence is not left to chance; it is carefully planned to ensure that students develop strong habits in writing over time. For example, before students are asked to write complete paragraphs, they must first be taught how to construct well-formed sentences and use appropriate punctuation. Systematic instruction also includes regular review, built-in supports, and formative assessments to monitor progress.
Explicit instruction involves direct, unambiguous teaching of specific skills or strategies. Teachers explain concepts clearly, demonstrate the skill step by step, and provide multiple examples. After modeling, students practice with teacher guidance (guided practice), then gradually take on more responsibility through independent practice. In writing, this could include explicitly teaching students how to use transition words, how to elaborate on a main idea, or how to organize their writing according to genre-specific conventions.