In this solo episode, T.D. Flenaugh shares a practical approach to supporting students who struggle with writing—especially those who freeze at a blank page or shut down after receiving feedback. She connects classroom experiences with national writing data and introduces a framework for building students’ writing habits without overwhelming them.Using an unfinished student argument draft as an example, Flenaugh demonstrates how to start feedback with strengths and then offer one focused next step. She also explains the difference between pre-writing, drafting, revision, and editing, and makes the case for authentic audiences, intentional practice, and more room for creativity in writing instruction.

01:05 — What this episode will help teachers do

03:10 — NAEP writing scores and the national decline

04:38 — Classroom and college signs of a deeper writing crisis

06:43 — Where to find R.E.W.R.I.T.E. Method resources

08:59 — Reading a writing sample

13:03 — Root causes and recognizing students’ talents

15:22 — Effective feedback starts with strengths

25:59 — Writing process, from pre-writing to editing

30:49 — Real audiences improve motivation

32:14 — Intentional writing goals

33:47 — Treasures of writing and language of the discipline

34:46 — Encouraging creativity in writing instruction

https://fallinginlovewithlearning.com/resources/ols/products/free-ebook-falling-in-love-with-writing

• Root causes
• Recognizing talents
• Effective feedback
• Real-world purposes and audiences
• Intentional practice
• Treasures: writing qualities
• Encouraging creativity