Certificate in the Teaching of Writing

“One who learns from one who is learning drinks from a running stream.” -- Siletz Nation Saying

The Certificate in the Teaching of Writing is co-sponsored by the Oregon Writing Project in cooperation with Lewis & Clark's Graduate School of Education and Counseling as well as the Center for Continuing Studies. This certification program is aimed specifically at developing teacher expertise as a writing coach for students as well as faculties.

While developing a framework for teaching writing and literacy across the curriculum, K-12 educators enrolled in the Teaching of Writing Graduate Certificate Program receive a strong grounding in writing and reflective teaching. Participants gain an understanding of literacy learning through a combination of working on their own writing, reflecting on their teaching practices, and reading current research in composition, literacy, and writing pedagogy.

Following the National Writing Project model of "teachers teaching teachers," participants share successful writing activities and develop and implement curriculum. They formulate research questions about their teaching practices and document the effects of their instruction by collecting and analyzing student work. While the bulk of the program focuses on developing and strengthening student writing, we also research and develop coaching and presenting skills.

The Oregon Writing Project Certificate in the Teaching of Writing would be granted after completion of the 16 semester credits outlined on the right. Electives which focus on K-2, 3-5, middle school and high school writing are also available as are occasional 1-credit weekend classes with more narrowed topics related to writing. More information about specific courses offered next term can be found elsewhere on our website.