Writing Across the Day: Building Knowledge and Reciprocal Practices with Reading

Grades: K-5  Dates: January 28-29, 2027 Times: 8:30am - 3:30pm  Venue: Teachers College, Columbia University Price: $525 Discounts: - Early bird discount available until 12/4/26 - Group discounts for 3+ participants

Who Should Attend: Teachers, Literacy Coaches and Leaders

Program Description This institute invites educators to deepen student literacy by unlocking the reciprocal relationship between reading and writing across the school day. Grounded in research-based pedagogy, Day 1 focuses on designing direct, explicit instruction to foster literacy growth. Participants will explore practical ways to leverage small group instruction, collaborative writing, mentor texts, and grammar in context to elevate student work. We will examine opportunities for writing through the school day including content area studies as well as the literacy block to plan for a tailored cohesive plan for immediate implementation.

On Day 2, we transition to a school site for authentic live practice. Educators will observe demonstration lessons as well as lead instruction to engage students directly. Participants will explore how strategic peer collaboration strengthens oral language development, writers’ confidence, and intrinsic motivation. Participants will refine their conferring skills to deliver targeted feedback and coaching, supporting students’ specific needs. By combining the learning of Day 1 with authentic, school-based application on Day 2, attendees will leave equipped to deliver integrated writing instruction across the day.

Learning Objectives

• Design direct, explicit lessons using mentor texts to strengthen reading and writing connections across content areas.

• Integrate contextual grammar instruction into authentic writing tasks to build structural understanding and craft.

• Facilitate collaborative writing and peer interactions that boost oral language, confidence, and motivation.

• Conduct effective student conferences to deliver personalized, actionable feedback.

• Apply and refine research-based literacy strategies through real-time classroom experience

*Make this a 3-day event: This institute precedes our January 30, 2027 Literacy Festival when we offer a variety of free workshops for teachers and literacy leaders online and in-person at Teachers College. We hope you’ll join us!

Upon completion of the institute participants will receive a certificate of participation from Teachers College, Columbia University, and NY state educators are eligible to receive CTLE credits.