Cheer for Students: ‘Write On!’

Literacy levels--and too often illiteracy--among the nation’s young have outraged their elders for more than 20 years. When America’s students are compared to their counterparts in other developed countries, they are often found wanting in the most basic building blocks of education: reading, writing and arithmetic. California children have had similar discouraging results.

So the news last week that eighth-grade students across San Diego County posted significant gains in one of the nation’s most comprehensive tests of writing skills was heartening; a sign that the increased emphasis on writing instruction at many schools is paying off.

San Diego County student scores increased 8 points to an average of 272, contrasting with the statewide average of 255.

To a large extent, this reflects improvements in the two largest districts in the county: San Diego Unified and Sweetwater Union High School districts, which each gained 8 points.

There were also some impressive improvements in mid-sized districts: Santee gained 18 points and Vista went up 13 points over last year. Moreover, most of the lowest achieving schools showed improvement.

Most educators equate effective writing with effective thinking. The California Assessment Program test requires students to organize their thoughts and to write coherent essays on an assigned topic in one of eight categories of writing.

If the test measures what it purports to measure--and many educators believe it is a particularly apt instrument--the news is good indeed.

It suggests that the eighth-graders are thinking better and can prove it by setting their thoughts down in writing.

Also, if the improved test scores are the result of the increased emphasis on writing instruction, both in English classes and in other subjects, the writing ability--and overall education--should continue to improve. More improvement is certainly needed.

Only 47% of the students in the county received scores that show adequate or better writing achievement.

To continue the writing emphasis will take a commitment of resources. Effective writing instruction depends on frequent feedback, which is time-consuming. Teacher training is also needed, especially for teachers outside English classes. If the current approaches continue to prove fruitful, the writing programs should be expanded to other grades.

But today’s a time for applause: for the educators in the 28 secondary districts in San Diego County and for the eighth-grade students.

Right on! Or, should that be “write on?” Or, both?