Blog Case Study with Walker Mill Middle School
By Young Writers |
Chelsea Maza, a dedicated Language Arts teacher at a talented and gifted center, has been a passionate advocate for fostering
creativity and writing skills in her students. Since 2020, Chelsea has
incorporated Young Writers contests into her curriculum, creating an enriching
experience for her students and the school community. This case study explores
her journey with Young Writers, the benefits it has brought to her students,
and the lasting impact on their writing skills and confidence.
DISCOVERING YOUNG WRITERS
Chelsea first learned about Young Writers contests from a
7th-grade Language Arts colleague. Intrigued by the creative writing focus of
the contests, she decided to give one a try! Chelsea noted that as her students
grow older, they often spend less time engaging with short stories and poetry.
Young Writers provided the perfect opportunity to rekindle their creative
spark.
STUDENT ENGAGEMENT AND WRITING FOR A PURPOSE
One of Chelsea’s primary goals as an educator is to provide
students with real-world applications for their classroom work. She values
opportunities to showcase her students' talents outside the school building.
Participating in Young Writers contests offered her students a purpose for
their writing and allowed their work to be appreciated by a wider audience.
Her students responded enthusiastically to the contests. The
various themes inspired them to develop plotlines and characters within word
limits, increasing their writing stamina, creativity, and skills.
IMPACT ON WRITING SKILLS AND STUDENT CONFIDENCE
Chelsea saw a transformation in her students’ writing
abilities and attitudes. Initially, only a few students chose to participate in
the contests. However, the arrival of certificates and recognition quickly
motivated others to join. This consistent practice built writing stamina, a
significant hurdle for many of her 6th graders. Over time, the once-daunting
task of a one-page essay became manageable and enjoyable.
One of the most touching success stories involved a
6th-grade student who initially struggled with the transition to middle school.
Feeling disheartened and doubting his abilities, he reluctantly participated in
a contest with encouragement from his mom. His creative piece was selected for
publication, boosting his confidence and inspiring him to put more effort into
his writing. Moments like these show how participating in a Young Writers
contest helps create confident writers.
Young Writers contests brought value to Chelsea’s school
community as students received positive attention not only from their peers but
also from the teaching staff, administration, and their families.
Parents were equally thrilled. Chelsea’s program includes
several Nigerian students, and having their work recognized internationally was
particularly meaningful as many parents sent a copy of the book as gifts to
relatives abroad, spreading pride and joy across the world!
INCORPORATING CONTESTS INTO LESSON PLANS
Chelsea easily integrated the contests into her lesson
plans, using the prompts Young Writers provide as part of their free resource
toolkits for teachers, to inspire her students. She also offered participation
as an optional extension activity or a choice at one of her language arts
centers for early finishers. This ensured that all students remained engaged
throughout the class period.
Additionally, Chelsea adapted some of the story starters
into five-to-ten-minute quick-write exercises, providing her students with
constant writing practice. These activities helped them develop their skills
while enjoying the process.
THE JOY OF BEING PUBLISHED
Receiving the published books was a highlight for both
students and their families. Chelsea loved witnessing students' pride as they
found their names in print. Parents cherished these moments, sharing the books
with extended family and celebrating their children’s accomplishments.
RECOMMENDATION TO OTHER TEACHERS AND SCHOOLS
Chelsea wholeheartedly recommends Young Writers contests to
other educators. She believes that writing is one of the most challenging
skills to motivate students to develop. Providing opportunities like these
contests makes writing both fun and valuable, inspiring students to embrace
their creativity.
As Young Writers continues to offer new and exciting writing
contests, Chelsea plans to stay involved. Her growing collection of Young
Writers books is a testament to her commitment to fostering creativity and
celebrating her students’ achievements. Taking part in Young Writers contests
has transformed not only her students’ writing skills but also their confidence
and enthusiasm for learning.