“The mind, once expanded to the dimensions of bigger ideas, never returns to its original size”

--Oliver Wendell Holmes

NWP Core Principles

The core principles at the foundation of NWP's national program model are:

*Teachers at every level-from kindergarten through college-are the agents of reform; universities and schools are ideal partners for investing in that reform through professional development.

*Writing can and should be taught, not just assigned, at every grade level. Professional development programs should provide opportunities for teachers to work together to understand the full spectrum of writing development across grades and across subject areas.

*Knowledge about the teaching of writing comes from many sources: theory and research, the analysis of practice, and the experience of writing. Effective professional development programs provide frequent and ongoing opportunities for teachers to write and to examine theory, research, and practice together systematically.

*There is no single right approach to teaching writing; however, some practices prove to be more effective than others. A reflective and informed community of practice is in the best position to design and develop comprehensive writing programs.

*Teachers who are well informed and effective in their practice can be successful teachers of other teachers as well as partners in educational research, development, and implementation. Collectively, teacher-leaders are our greatest resource for educational reform.

“A true piece of writing is a dangerous thing. It can change your life.”--Tobias Wolfe

Activities of the Eastern Illinois Writing Project

• Writing activities like journaling, writing marathons, peer response, and demonstration feedback.

• Teaching demonstrations—the highlight of the Institute.
• Reading and research
• Small and large group discussions
• Coaching sessions with directors and teaching consultants
• Having fun
  

Additional Activities of the EWP

• In-Services led by new teacher consultants from the summer institute
• Reading and Writing Workshops
• Conference participation
• Web and listserve discussions
• Writing and pedagogy publications

To read the site application for the Eastern Illinois Writing Center Project click here.

To read the brochure for the Summer 2009 Institute click here.