Kick-Start Writing Instruction:
Routines, Strategies, & Stamina for K-5 Writers
October 21, 2025 | Pendleton, IN
Great writing instruction doesn’t happen by chance —it’s grounded in the science of writing and built through intentional routines, direct instruction, and strategic feedback. This workshop equips grade K-5 English-language arts teachers with research-based strategies to develop confident, resilient writers while providing a step-by-step plan for launching writing instruction that fosters engagement and stamina.
October 21, 2025
8:30 A.M. – 3:00 P.M.
Includes 1-hour lunch on your own
South Madison School Corporation
203 S. Heritage Way
Pendleton, IN 46064
$200 / person
Enjoy a 10% discount with groups of 10 or more.
Start your writing instruction with a plan that transforms writing time into one of the most engaging and effective parts of your day!
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:
- How to establish clear routines so students stay engaged and build writing stamina—without constant teacher prompting.
- The three essential areas of writing instruction that are backed by research and assessed on state rubrics.
- Why direct instruction is critical for growing writers—and how to deliver explicit mini-lessons in writing.
- Research-based feedback strategies that guide students toward self-revision instead of relying on the teacher.
- Practical ways to carve out time for writing in a packed literacy block.
WHAT YOU’LL TAKE AWAY:
- A step-by-step plan to kick-start genre-based writing instruction with momentum.
- A flexible framework for integrating writing with reading and language instruction.
- A clear understanding of the essential skills to prioritize in writing instruction, honoring the components of the 6 Traits of Writing and The Writing Rope.
- Strategies to help students persist through writing challenges instead of shutting down.
- A research-based approach that makes writing time more productive and stress-free.
WHO
SHOULD
ATTEND?
- ELA Teachers, Grades K-5
- School Administrators
- Instructional Coaches
- Curriculum Leaders
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
Handout for note-
taking during the workshop
FREE copy of Launching the Writer’s Workshop!
(choice of K-2 or 3-12)
Lifetime access to free digital resources for implementation
Completion certificate for 5.5 hours of PD credit
GRADUATE-LEVEL CREDIT
For an additional fee of $62 per credit/unit, workshop attendees are eligible to pursue 1-3 graduate-level university semester credit units from the University of the Pacific, Center for Professional Development and Continuing Education. Please check with your district to determine course acceptability.
PRESENTER:
Didi Harris | Smekens Literacy Consultant
With experience as a classroom teacher, interventionist, and reading specialist, Didi Harris partners with K–8 educators to strengthen reading and writing instruction through practical, evidence-based strategies. She is known for her ability to turn best practices into clear, classroom-ready techniques teachers can use right away. Didi’s supportive coaching style and positive energy make professional learning both engaging and effective. Whether modeling a mini-lesson with students or collaborating with teachers, she helps schools build consistent, high-quality reading and writing instruction that empowers students to grow as writers.