Writing to learn science in first grade

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine if first graders could learn how to write while writing to learn. An inquiry cycle was developed to guide the students as they learn content area material. Writing to learn activities were selected that promote, or facilitate, the thinking process of the inquiry cycle. The writing to learn activities are: freewriting, brainstorming, questioning, graphic organizers, review writing, and elaboration writing. Twenty-five first graders learned about our solar system and plans by engaging in these writing to learn activities. Finding. The writing to learn activities provided the students with opportunities to go through the steps in the writing process of composition, as well as provide opportunities to go through the steps in the inquiry cycle to learn new information about the topic. In addition to writing and concept development, the writing to learn activities encouraged collaborative learning and reflective teaching practices.