Write Away Together
Write Away Together uses adults as writing partners. They are trained to make a positive response
to children's writing and to help them improve the impact of their writing on the reader through
addressing changes at text, sentence and word level.
The model - PRAISE, IMPROVE, PLAN underpins Write Away Together and schools report that it has
contributed significantly to improved writing standards.
Assessment for Learning sits at the heart of Write Away Together. Children become effective learners
through understanding what they are doing successfully, what needs to be improved and how to make
those improvements. Discussions with the writing partner address these areas.
Structure
2 x 20 minute sessions a week for a minimum of a term. Initially Write Away Together
was developed as a 1 to 1
programme. At the request of schools it has now been adapted for small groups. The training addresses both models.
Quantative outcomes taken from a sample of 198 children
Length of time in the programme ranged from 1-3 terms. The Average Point Score gain was 4.5. (annual average progress
normally 3 APS points). The gains ranged from 1.5 APS to 6.5 APS due to variables such as length of programme, age and
ability of children.
Training Options
- A 1-day trainer training for LA personnel.
- An external trainer can be brought in to train schools within the LA. Optimum size of training group 12-15 schools. A teacher and TA from each school
should attend as the intervention relies on the partnership between the two.
- This training is also available as a Professional Development Day for schools. The Write Away Together structure is used within shared and guided
writing make a significant difference to pupils' attitudes and progress.
Further Information
For further information please email Lynn Sawyer
or telephone 01462 675851.