Teach your kiddo to write ✍🏾

The best PreK-12th grade writing curriculum of 2023

In an era defined by transformative political movements and the entrepreneurial spirit, the art of proficient writing emerges as a catalyst for individuals seeking to effectuate political change and chart their own path to financial freedom.

Upon entering college, many students frequently find themselves lacking proficient writing skills, with some unfortunately never having received adequate instruction or support in this crucial area.

A 2011 study conducted by the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) revealed that a mere 27% of 8th graders in the U.S. demonstrated proficiency in writing. These numbers indicate a widespread lack of preparedness among incoming college students. It suggests that the teaching and cultivation of writing skills may not be receiving the necessary attention and focus in many educational institutions, leaving a significant portion of students ill-equipped for the demands of college-level written communication.

The importance of writing skills cannot be overstated. Regardless of the industry or profession, effective writing is a vital component of success. Strong writing abilities enable professionals to communicate their ideas, proposals, and reports clearly and persuasively, fostering effective collaboration and decision-making. Well-written emails, memos, and other forms of written communication are essential for conveying information accurately and professionally. Additionally, writing plays a crucial role in creating compelling marketing materials, including advertisements, press releases, and social media content, which can significantly impact a company's brand image and customer engagement. In fields such as journalism, public relations, and content creation, exceptional writing skills are fundamental for conveying stories, shaping narratives, and engaging audiences. Whether it is drafting contracts, writing research papers, or crafting presentations, the ability to express thoughts concisely and articulately positions individuals for career advancement and professional recognition. Strong writing skills are a cornerstone for effective communication, professional credibility, and career growth in today's competitive job market.

Through persuasive writing, activists and advocates can articulate their vision, mobilize supporters, and drive movements that challenge societal norms and promote meaningful reforms. Similarly, aspiring entrepreneurs can harness the power of well-crafted business plans, grant proposals, and marketing strategies to secure funding, attract investors, and bring their innovative ideas to fruition, ultimately paving the way for economic empowerment and autonomy.

Whether your child is in school or homeschooling, there are tools and strategies you can use to support their writing skills at home.

And we’re pleased to announce we’re starting our own July NaNoWriMo camp, free for premium members! (Details at the end of the post)

Top writing resources

Top choice overall

1. Brave Writer (PreK-12th grade)

A good choice for: Self-directed, gifted or reluctant writers, kids with dysgraphia and dyslexia, kids with strong feelings about writing (they love it or hate it).

Not a fit for: Families craving more structure and emphasis on mechanics. Some parents with kids with ADHD, or who have ADHD themselves felt the program was not well-organized enough for them.

Brave Writer is an innovative and highly regarded writing program that stands out for its emphasis on fostering creativity, original voice, and a love for writing. Through a literature-based approach, Brave Writer encourages students to explore diverse texts, engage in thoughtful discussions, and develop critical thinking skills. The program's flexibility allows for personalized learning experiences, as students have the freedom to choose their own writing topics and projects. Brave Writer nurtures a supportive community of homeschoolers and educators, providing a wealth of resources and guidance. While its gentle approach to writing instruction is praised by many, some users may find its lack of explicit structure and the need for parental involvement challenging. Brave Writer is a good fit for families seeking a flexible and creative writing program that encourages personal expression and incorporates literature and poetry. However, it may not be suitable for those looking for a highly structured and traditional curriculum with a strong emphasis on grammar rules and formal writing conventions. The online courses provide more structure and guidance, and are led by expert instructors. Brave Writer ranges in cost from $49 for an individual grade level course to $249+ for a semester long online courses or complete packages.

What parents love

• Emphasis on Creativity and Original Voice: Brave Writer is often praised for its focus on nurturing creativity and encouraging students to find their unique writing voice. It promotes self-expression and values personal stories and perspectives.

• Literature-Based Approach: Many users appreciate Brave Writer's integration of literature into the writing process. The program offers literature studies and encourages reading and discussion, which helps students develop critical thinking skills and deepen their understanding of storytelling techniques.

• Flexibility and Personalization: Brave Writer provides flexibility for parents and students to choose their own writing topics and projects. It allows for customization and tailoring to individual interests, which can enhance engagement and motivation.

• Supportive Community and Resources: Brave Writer has a strong online community of homeschoolers and educators who share resources, ideas, and support. Users appreciate the availability of webinars, forums, and other resources that provide guidance and inspiration.

• Gentle Approach to Writing Instruction: The gentle approach of Brave Writer is often cited as a positive aspect. It focuses on creating a positive and low-pressure environment for writing, fostering a love for writing rather than focusing solely on grammar and structure.

Cons

• Lack of Explicit Structure: Some users feel that Brave Writer lacks a clear, step-by-step structure for teaching writing. This can be a disadvantage for those who prefer a more prescriptive approach or for students who benefit from explicit guidelines.

• Requires Parental Involvement: Brave Writer often requires significant parental involvement and guidance, particularly for younger students or those who need more support. This can be challenging for busy parents or those looking for a more independent writing program.

• Steep Learning Curve: Implementing Brave Writer can be initially overwhelming for parents or teachers who are new to the program. It may take time to familiarize oneself with the materials, philosophy, and approach, which can be a barrier for some users.

• Not Suitable for All Learning Styles: Brave Writer's emphasis on creativity and personal expression may not align with the preferences and learning styles of all students. Some individuals may thrive with more structure and explicit instruction.

• Cost: The cost of Brave Writer materials and courses is often mentioned as a potential drawback. While the program offers various resources and options, the expense may be a consideration for families on a tight budget.

Best guide for families

2. The Writing Revolution* (Teaching guide)

A good choice for: Families who want to be actively involved in their child’s education, looking for a systematic approach.

Not a fit for: Families looking for a grab and go curriculum or with super reluctant writers.

The Writing Revolution (TWR) is a highly regarded writing approach that offers a systematic and effective method for teaching writing skills. Founded by educator Judith C. Hochman, TWR was originally developed to address educational inequity by providing classroom teachers with a comprehensive framework to develop strong writing abilities in students. It was quickly adapted by the homeschooling community as a guide to teaching writing that provided valuable tips to amateur and professional writer parents. TWR focuses on breaking down the writing process into manageable steps and providing ample practice in small, focused chunks. By emphasizing sentence-level skills and the use of specific writing tools, TWR helps students understand the intricacies of good writing without feeling overwhelmed. The program's emphasis on practice, sentence construction, and developing a keen sense of effective writing is highly valued by homeschoolers and educators alike. TWR is particularly effective for students who benefit from structured and explicit instruction, as it provides clear models, strategies, and scaffolds to support their writing development. The program may not appeal to families who prefer a more self-directed, open-ended approach. It follows a structured and explicit instructional model, which may not align with teaching philosophies that emphasize student-led exploration and creativity in writing. Additionally, TWR primarily focuses on developing foundational writing skills and may not be suitable for parents seeking a comprehensive writing program that covers advanced writing techniques or specific genres. Furthermore, TWR's implementation requires a commitment to consistent and structured instruction Some users may find TWR's lack of pre-made workbooks and structured curriculum to be a drawback. That said, almost any family will benefit from reading the exceptional core text and guide to teaching writing. Since TWR is an approach, and not a curriculum, families may from complementing this resource with a curriculum such as Redwood Literacy or taking advantage of the free resources on the website. Many pair it with Brave Writer as well. The core book starts at $19 on Amazon.

Pros

• Effective Writing Instruction: TWR is often praised for its effectiveness in teaching writing skills. Many users find that it provides a structured and comprehensive approach to teaching mechanics, grammar, and sentence construction.

• Integration into Different Subjects: TWR's emphasis on embedding writing into various subjects is appreciated by many users. It allows for meaningful connections between writing and other areas of study, making the writing process more engaging and relevant for students.

• Development of Strong Writing Skills: TWR is known for cultivating strong writing skills in students. It focuses on specific writing tools and techniques, helping students become proficient in crafting clear, coherent, and effective sentences and paragraphs.

• Addressing Educational Inequity: TWR was originally designed to address educational inequity by providing teachers with an effective approach to teaching writing skills in the classroom. This commitment to equity in education is often seen as a significant advantage of the program.

• Adaptability: TWR can be tailored to different grade levels and individual abilities. Parents and homeschoolers appreciate the program's flexibility, as it allows them to design exercises and activities tailored to their child's existing learning materials.

Cons

• Parent/Teacher Prep / Not open and go: Implementing TWR requires some legwork from parents or teachers. It involves planning and designing writing exercises, which can be time-consuming and may require additional resources and materials.

• Lack of Pre-Made Workbooks: Some homeschoolers desire a more structured curriculum with pre-made workbooks, which TWR doesn't provide. This can be a drawback for those seeking a ready-to-use writing program.

• Lack of Structure: While flexibility is appreciated by some users, others find TWR to be less structured compared to other writing programs. This may pose challenges for those who prefer a more prescriptive approach.

• Potential Workload: TWR can be perceived as a lot of work to implement, especially for busy parents or teachers. The program's effectiveness may require a significant investment of time and effort.

• Individual Readiness: Some users mention the importance of considering a child's individual abilities and readiness when using TWR. It may require gradual progression from elementary-level sentence composing resources to more complex paragraph and essay writing, which can vary depending on each student's development.

Fun for online learners

3. Night Zookeeper (1st-6th)*

Who it’s a good fit for: Kids who love adaptive learning apps, videos and games

Who it’s not a good fit for: Kids who get antsy during screen time

Note: Modulo has an exclusive 50% discount for premium members. Scroll down for details or join Modulo to take advantage of the offer.

Night Zookeeper is an engaging online platform designed to foster and enhance children's creative writing skills. Parents can sign up their children to become part of the Night Zookeeper community, where they embark on writing adventures in a virtual world. Through interactive lessons, imaginative prompts, and writing challenges, Night Zookeeper encourages children to unleash their creativity, develop their storytelling abilities, and build a love for writing. Parents can supervise their child's progress, provide feedback on their work, and even join in the writing adventures. Night Zookeeper can be a particularly good fit for children who enjoy creative writing and storytelling. It appeals to kids who have an imaginative and adventurous mindset, as it encourages them to create and develop their own unique characters, stories, and poems. The program provides a platform for children to unleash their creativity and engage in writing activities in a fun and interactive way. It may also be beneficial for children who need additional motivation and encouragement to practice their writing skills. Night Zookeeper's online platform and game-like elements can captivate and inspire young writers, making it an appealing option for those who may be resistant to traditional writing exercises. Night Zookeeper may not be a good fit for children who prefer structured and guided writing instruction. If a child thrives in a more traditional classroom setting with clear lesson plans and direct teaching, they may find Night Zookeeper's open-ended approach less engaging or challenging. Additionally, children who struggle with typing or have limited computer skills may face difficulties navigating the online platform effectively. For parents seeking a comprehensive writing curriculum with a strong emphasis on grammar, mechanics, and formal writing skills, Night Zookeeper's focus on creative writing and storytelling may not align with their goals. . Through its online medium, Night Zookeeper offers a convenient and accessible way for children to improve their writing skills from the comfort of their own homes. Night Zookeeper subscriptions range from $12.99/month to $118.99 for a full year, with a free trial.

Pros

• Encourages creative writing: Night Zookeeper motivates children to engage in creative writing and storytelling.

• Feedback and interaction: Children receive basic feedback on their writing exercises and can interact with other users' stories, creating a sense of community.

• Supplemental writing practice: Night Zookeeper serves as a valuable supplement for additional writing practice alongside other curricula.

• Typing skills development: The program helps children improve their typing skills, which are essential in today's digital world.

• Engaging and enjoyable: Many users found Night Zookeeper to be fun and engaging, making writing more enjoyable for children.

Cons

• Lack of structured instruction: Night Zookeeper lacks comprehensive instruction, making it more suitable as a supplement rather than a complete writing curriculum.

• Distractions from writing: Some users found the game-like elements and activities to be distracting and diverting attention from the core writing tasks.

• Limited long-term engagement: The novelty of Night Zookeeper wore off for some children after a few weeks, resulting in decreased usage over time.

• Need for parent involvement: Night Zookeeper may require more parent involvement than expected, especially for younger children or those in need of guidance.

• Limited educational depth: Concerns were raised about the program's limited educational value in teaching grammar and structured writing skills.

Standards-Aligned instruction

4. Evan Moor Writing* (Grades K-6th)

A good fit for: Parents considered about keeping kids on track at school, concerned about the mechanics of writing.

Not a fit for: Kids with special reluctance to writing, or prefer more interactive activities.s

Evan Moor is a writing program designed for homeschoolers that provides structured and methodical instruction in writing skills. Parents can choose to use the printed worksheets and exercises directly from the physical workbooks or access the digital versions through the online platform called "TeacherFileBox." It is particularly suitable for parents who prefer a structured approach to writing instruction and appreciate the option to use physical or online materials. What sets Evan Moor apart from other writing curricula is its focus on daily practice, grammar and punctuation reinforcement, and the systematic approach it offers. It is particularly well-suited for parents seeking a curriculum that offers consistent and incremental skill-building in writing. However, Evan Moor may not be the best fit for parents looking for a program that emphasizes creative expression or higher-level writing skills. The cost of Evan Moor ranges from around $10 for single grade-level workbook to $29 for a comprehensive writing curriculum package for a specific grade level.

Pros

• Daily practice: Provides daily writing practice

• Structured approach: Follows a structured and methodical approach

• Grammar and punctuation: Includes grammar and punctuation practice

• Fundamental skills: Focuses on building and reinforcing fundamental writing skills

Cons

• Less inspirational: May limit opportunities for creative expression

• Worksheet reliance: Relies heavily on worksheets

• Limited higher-level skills: Limited emphasis on higher-level writing skills

• Supplementary needs: May require supplementation with additional resources

• Limited feedback: Personalized feedback may be limited

Structured, daily practice

5. Winning with Writing* (1st-8th grades)

Good for: Kids who like workbooks, families and kids who need a highly structured approach.
Not a fit for: Kids who dislike writing

Winning With Writing is a comprehensive and structured writing curriculum that offers a step-by-step approach to developing fundamental writing skills. The program incorporates grammar and punctuation practice, providing a strong foundation for effective written communication. With its clear instructions and ample opportunities for guided practice, Winning With Writing is well-suited for elementary school students. The inclusion of engaging writing prompts and activities helps to stimulate creativity and make the writing process enjoyable. However, some potential limitations include a heavier emphasis on worksheets and a potential need for supplemental resources to address higher-level writing skills. Overall, Winning With Writing provides a solid framework for teaching and reinforcing essential writing skills for young learners. Workbooks range from $18 for a single workbook to $23 for a complete set. Answer keys are $3

Pros

• Structured Plan: Laid out for 36 weeks, providing a structured plan for the entire year.

• Manageable workload: Short enough to prevent it from feeling tedious, but still offers enough work to make a difference.

• Step-by-step approach: Breaks down the writing process into manageable steps, which can be helpful for students who struggle with writing.

• Repetition for reinforcement: Provides repetition, which can reinforce writing skills and build confidence.

• Clear assignments: Offers clear assignments, making it easy for parents and students to follow.

Cons

• Tedious and repetitive: Some users find it tedious, repetitive, and too focused on breaking down writing into small parts.

• Lack of creativity: May not be the best fit for students who prefer a more creative and exploratory approach to writing.

• Limited content guidance: It may not provide enough guidance on content and creative writing.

• Overemphasis on mechanics: The program's emphasis on mechanics may overshadow the development of writing skills.

Motivating and Social

6. NaNoWriMo

Good for: Kids who are motivated by social activities, goals, milestones, games, kids with ADHD who benefit from the clear objectives and milestones.

Not a good fit for: Kids who get stressed when they are under pressure or deadlines.

While not strictly a formal writing curriculum, NaNoWriMo offers a wealth of resources, interactive challenges, and a supportive community that can help writers of all levels improve their craft, expand their creativity, and build discipline in writing consistently. This free program equips young participants with daily word count goals, feedback mechanisms, interaction with other young writers, advice columns, and rewarding badges and trophies, as they embark on the exciting journey of crafting their own novel. The ease of setting up NaNoWriMo and its self-guiding nature make it an excellent resource that's ideally suited to home schooling environments. Notably, the platform provides access to workbooks tailored for elementary and middle school students, as well as a free classroom kit that can be obtained simply by signing up as a teacher and filling out a survey. Additionally, a dedicated "parents and homeschoolers" thread in the forums provides an avenue for sharing and discussion. NaNoWriMo offers a plethora of learning resources for aspiring writers, including grade-specific workbooks to help create characters, build settings, and develop plots, as well as the official NaNoWriMo handbook "Brave the Page", which provides a comprehensive guide to writing and achieving creative goals. Additional resources include the NaNo Prep 101 Workshop, a 6-week novel prep course based on successful NaNoWriMo participants' experiences, word-count goal suggestions, a dedicated forum for advice, and various novel-writing books available in the NaNoWriMo store. In addition to the general NaNoWriMo community, Modulo also has its own dedicated writing group, limited to 20 participants, where we offer a space for collaborative engagement and inspiration.

Pros

• Creative outlet: NaNoWriMo provides a platform for participants to unleash their creativity and explore their storytelling abilities.

• Goal-oriented approach: The challenge of writing 50,000 words in a month encourages participants to set and achieve writing goals, fostering discipline and perseverance.

• Community and support: NaNoWriMo offers a vibrant and supportive community of writers who can provide encouragement, motivation, and valuable feedback.

• Accessible and inclusive: NaNoWriMo is open to writers of all ages and experience levels, making it a welcoming space for aspiring authors and seasoned writers alike.

• Free participation: NaNoWriMo is a free program, allowing anyone to join and participate without financial barriers.

Cons

• Time commitment: Writing 50,000 words in a month requires a significant time commitment, which may be challenging for individuals with busy schedules or other commitments.

• Pressure and stress: The intensity of the NaNoWriMo challenge can create pressure and stress for some participants, affecting their enjoyment and creative process.

• Quantity over quality: The focus on word count can sometimes prioritize quantity over quality, leading to rushed or unfinished work.

• Limited revision time: The fast-paced nature of NaNoWriMo may result in a first draft that requires extensive revision and editing before it reaches a polished state.

• Overemphasis on output: The emphasis on meeting word count goals may overshadow other aspects of the writing process, such as research, planning, and reflection.

Learning archetypes

Since writing is such a personal and complex skill, we thought it might be helpful for us to break down our favorite resources for different kinds of learners with all kinds of relationships to writing. These recommendations consider the strengths and potential benefits of each program for students with specific learning needs. However, it's important to assess individual strengths, challenges, and preferences when selecting a writing program. Collaboration with educators, specialists, and parents can help tailor the learning experience to best support each student's unique needs.

ADHD

NaNoWriMo (Young Writers Program): The program's emphasis on short, focused bursts of writing, goal-setting, and creative exploration can be beneficial for students with ADHD. The structure of writing within a specific timeframe, the option for personal choice in topics, and the supportive online community can help maintain engagement and motivation.

Autism Spectrum

Brave Writer: The program's emphasis on creative expression, flexibility, and personal connection can be well-suited for students on the autism spectrum. It allows for individualized approaches and encourages self-expression, which can cater to the unique strengths and interests of individuals on the autism spectrum.

Gifted and 2E

Brave Writer: Brave Writer offers a comprehensive and flexible writing curriculum that can be adapted to the needs and abilities of gifted and talented writers. It emphasizes a holistic approach to writing, focusing on self-expression, creativity, and exploration of various genres. Brave Writer provides a supportive and engaging learning environment that encourages gifted and talented writers to delve deeper into their writing, experiment with advanced techniques, and push the boundaries of their creativity. The program's emphasis on quality literature, rich language experiences, and personal connection to writing can inspire gifted and talented writers to develop their unique voice, refine their skills, and produce high-quality written work.

Dysgraphia

Brave Writer: With its focus on creative expression and flexible writing approaches, Brave Writer can benefit students with dysgraphia. The program encourages students to explore various modes of expression, including verbal storytelling, dictation, typing, or using assistive technology, allowing them to focus on their ideas and overcome the physical challenges associated with handwriting.

*Note that we recommend different programs for handwriting.

Dyslexia

Writing Revolution: The structured and systematic approach, explicit instruction, and multisensory strategies used in the program can benefit dyslexic students by providing clear guidance, building foundational skills, and addressing common challenges associated with dyslexia.

Pro-tips

If your child is a reluctant writer, it can be helpful to not overemphasize mechanics in the beginning. Here are a few exercises that can help.

1. Free writing

We often encourage our kids to do a lot of free-writing where they are simply putting down every word that pops into their head, without pressure to write well. 90% of writing is editing and it’s helpful to simply write in the beginning. Kids can also keep a diary.

2. Read a lot

As kids read more, they’ll start to adapt some of the techniques they see other writers using. In this way, they’ll learn writing through transmission.

3. Shared Google Doc

One of our favorite class exercises is to start a Google Doc with a child. It starts very simply. They write a word, then you write a word. Then they write a sentence and you write a sentence. Kids like when you cut off the sentence mid-way to add suspense and let them shape the story. Gradually it can evolve into them writing one paragraph, then more paragraphs and then writing on their own.

4. Write a book together

You can write a whole book on your Google Doc, edit it, publish it on Amazon and even practice marketing it. It can really inspire kids to share their work, and also help them understand some of the utility of writing.

5. Start a blog

Have your kid start a blog on Substack or Medium. This will be a fun way to give their writing a practical purpose in the world and inspire them to share with others.

6. Creative writing group

Team up with some other families for in-person or online writing club. Kids can use some time to write and sometime to share. The point is not to critique each other’s work, but to get writing, and see how work resonates when read aloud. If it seems that kids are open to it, you can introduce constructive criticism with very clear guidelines

Join Modulo’s Writing Group!

We're excited to announce that we'll be participating in the upcoming Camp NaNoWriMo this July, fostering creativity and camaraderie within our team as we embark on this writing adventure together. The writing group is available to premium members of the Modulo community and limited to 20 participants. If you aren’t already a premium member, consider joining the community. If you want to join the group, but can’t afford it, just shoot us an email and we’ll be happy to give you a scholarship.