Writing

Hill’s writing classes are designed to support students experiencing written language difficulties. Modeled after Hill School, the class offers a multisensory, systematic methodology in a small-group environment with a maximum 4:1 student-teacher ratio, designed to support each student’s individual needs. Through initial and ongoing assessments, specific target skills are identified for each child and, as appropriate, instruction then focuses on teaching students spelling rules, notetaking, handwriting, grammar and mechanics, and writing strategies. Writing composition work may include learning how to brainstorm, use graphic organizers, compose a rough draft, edit, revise, and publish compositions. Skills are taught and reinforced through 5 components:

Drill, Oral & Written Spelling, Copying/Dictation, Handwriting, & Written Composition

Through these components, students learn key skills, including:

• Improving letter formation, reduce reversals, and correct word spacing
  
• Strengthening capitalization, punctuation, grammar, and proofreading skills
  
• Breaking spelling words into parts orally to help associate the sounds with letters
  
• Learning to spell words from phonetic and sight word lists
  
• Increasing speed and accuracy with notetaking
  
• Developing writing skills through an emphasis on breaking down the writing process and supporting students through each stage