A Good Fit for All Kids

A Good Fit for All Kids supports teachers in constructing research-based, collaborative approaches to teaching writing, in print and technology-mediated forms, for diverse, inclusive classrooms.

Based on lessons drawn from an experimental writing enrichment program, the book illustrates how teachers and students benefit from a well-sequenced writing curriculum with high expectations for a heterogeneous population of participants, including students who have often been poorly served by writing instruction in schools.

Kelly Chandler-Olcott delves into detail on key topics such as planning, inquiry stance, modeling, and conferring, and shows how each can be better adapted to inclusive classrooms. She also includes lesson plan templates, protocols for examining student work, and ideas for strategic grouping at different stages of composing, among other tested tools.

A teacher-friendly resource grounded in empirical research yet filled with practical advice, A Good Fit for All Kids is uniquely suited for educators interested in making high-quality writing a special focus for professional learning communities and other collaborative efforts.

"With deep love and high regard for young people and for the educators who work with them, Chandler-Olcott presents a picture of what respectful, inclusive, growth-oriented writing instruction might look like, and 'what a beautiful job' teaching could be. I urge all writing project colleagues, and indeed, all writing teachers, to buy this book, to read it in community, and to imagine the possibilities."

--Tanya Baker, director, National Programs, National Writing Project

"Writing. It scares a lot of students (and their teachers). But it doesn't have to. Don't take this the wrong way, but this book makes teaching writing almost seem easy. The advice is practical and grounded in diverse classrooms. It's accessible and relevant. And it's actionable."

--Douglas Fisher, professor and chair, Department of Educational Leadership, San Diego State University

Kelly Chandler-Olcott is the Laura J. and L. Douglas Meredith Professor for Teaching Excellence at the Syracuse University School of Education.