This teaching guide is based upon the Young Adolescent Motivation Model of Writing (YAMM). YAMM places the young learner, aged 11-14, at its centre, surrounded by the components needed to motivate them to high levels of academic composition or creative writing. The book shows how to develop a writing community, present high-interest lessons, integrate process writing across the curriculum, offer choice, encourage critical thinking and use authentic assessment. Literature, drama, music, drawing and painting are offered as both invitations and responses to writing. These are applied within a process-based, workshop format, with teacher modelling of each stage. Each component is clearly illustrated with best practice examples. Sample lessons representing a wide array of writing genres and content area subjects are also provided. The approach aims to motivate young adolescents, encouraging them to take responsibility for their development as writers and learners. The teacher assumes a facilitative and supportive role, discovering the strengths, interests, and literacy needs of each student.

Mary Anna Kruch