This Is Your Brain on Fiction

I just ran across a link to a 2012 article, "Your Brain on Fiction," by Annie Murphy Paul about the importance of reading literature. Did you know that reading descriptive writing not only stimulates the language-processing area of the brain, but also the related sensory regions? Furthermore, reading well-written fiction also improves the reader's social-emotional … Continue reading This Is Your Brain on Fiction

Summer Drama Classes for Augusta/C.S.R.A. Students!

I'm excited to share a great opportunity for local students of Augusta and the surrounding area! My friend Christi Volpitto Wildes is offering a drama camp for students in grades 3rd-6th and 7th-12th! I've known Christi since she was in high school, and now her youngest child is in high school. 🙂 I've been privileged … Continue reading Summer Drama Classes for Augusta/C.S.R.A. Students!

Don’t “teach to the test!” Test what you teach!

Thanks to IEW's monthly newsletter, I just learned of a new test that replaces the problematic standardized tests that shackle teachers to Common Core standards, the ACT, and the SAT. Many private schools and homeschools educate their students using a classical model. Until recently, there was no standardized test or college entrance exam geared toward … Continue reading Don’t “teach to the test!” Test what you teach!

The Foundation of IEW Writing: Key Word Outlining

"Key Word Outlining" is the foundational writing skill that students first learn in the IEW method and Writing to Learn classes. As we progress through the different types of writing in the three levels, the way students choose the information for the key word outline (kwo) changes. Nevertheless, the kwo is always the catalyst for … Continue reading The Foundation of IEW Writing: Key Word Outlining

Featured Student: Essay Contest Winner!

Last week I interviewed Tyleigh Spiller, one of my recent Level 3 graduates, about her experience of entering and winning an essay writing contest! The South Carolina Department of Education and Dominion Energy offered students the opportunity to choose and write about an inspiring African American from South Carolina. A winner was chosen from each … Continue reading Featured Student: Essay Contest Winner!