Welcome
The Early Writing Project is a collaborative effort among researchers at the University of Minnesota, the University of Missouri, and school districts and teachers in both states. We provide research-based tools (assessments, intervention materials, and decision-making guides), learning modules (face-to-face workshops), and coaching (virtual and on-site) to support teachers’ use of Data-Based Instruction for students with intensive early writing needs.
Learn More About UsWriting
Writing is essential for students’ success in school and later life. Writing is key to children’s overall literacy development, and has a strong connection to reading. Children must use writing to communicate what they are learning in school, and can promote critical thinking skills. Many children struggle to become proficient in writing. Fortunately, early identification of writing difficulties, along with research-based instruction and intervention, can prevent long-term negative consequences of writing failure for many children.
Students nationally lag in reading skills
- By Grade 8, only 27% of children are above Proficient; 20% perform Below Basic levels
- By Grade 12, only 27% of children are above Proficient; 21% perform Below Basic levels
Results from the early writing project
Preliminary data indicate, when teachers implement DBI in early writing, their students show promising early writing outcomes compared to controls (students whose teachers did not implement DBI).
Learn More About Our ResearchPurchase Material
If you would like to purchase materials for The Early Writing Project please click below and you will be directed to the online store.
Click here to purchase materialsDistance Learning Resources
Please feel free to download this resource guide and resources for using The Early Writing Project materials in a virtual format.