2119V - Written Language Development, Expectations, and Assessment Methods for Elementary Students (PK-6)

Writing requires a complex interplay of cognitive and linguistic processes. Although many elementary students struggle with writing, these challenges are exacerbated for students with cognitive-linguistic difficulties and learning disabilities. Writing challenges negatively affect academic performance and can be increasingly detrimental as students advance – or attempt to advance – to higher grade levels. Thus, writing challenges pose a significant barrier to engagement and success in academic settings if they are not addressed. This seminar provides an overview of writing development stages, expectations, and sources of difficulty for elementary students. This seminar will also include a discussion of relevant theories and models to guide identification of writing challenges and identify assessment options.