Why “We-Do” Writing Is Key to Independence

In this S1E10 interview, Leah Mermelstein reveals the revolutionary "We-Do" Writing method that's helping teachers nationwide solve two critical problems: shaky student independence and competing literacy theories.

In this expert interview, discover:
✅ Why traditional gradual release isn't working for writing instruction
✅ The 3 essential instructional strands every writer needs
✅ How 10-minute collaborative sessions transform student engagement
✅ Practical strategies for effective teaching that connect reading and writing
✅ Teaching tips that support both new teachers and veteran educators
✅ How to build student motivation through structured collaboration

Episode Mentions: 

Leah’s Published Writing:

• Mermelstein, Leah. (2005). Reading/Writing Connections in the K-2 Classroom:  Find the Clarity and Then Blur the Lines. Allyn & Bacon.
• Mermelstein, Leah. (2007). Don't Forget to Share: The Crucial Last Step in the Writing Workshop. Heinemann.
• Mermelstein, Leah. (2013).  Self-Directed Writers: The Third Essential Element in the Writing Workshop. Heinemann.
• Mermelstein, Leah. (2021).“We-Do” Writing: Maximizing Practice to Develop Independent Writers. Benchmark Education.
• Mermelstein, Leah. (2021). 6 Qualities of a Strong Writing Curriculum.  Benchmark Education.
• Mermelstein, Leah. (2021). Aligning Reading and Writing Instruction in Kindergarten-2nd Grade.  Learning Without Tears.

Perfect for teachers, education coaches, instructional leaders, and anyone passionate about student success. Leah's research-backed approach creates thriving students while making teaching more manageable.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Leah Mermelstein
00:46 Leah's Teaching Background & Expertise  
03:13 Inspiration from Professor Pearson's Gradual Release Model
05:33 Flipping Traditional Teaching Approaches
07:18 What is "We-Do" Writing? 
08:19 The 3 Essential Instructional Strands
10:23 Interactive Writing Sessions Explained
11:30 Connecting Phonics to Writing Practice
12:31 Write Aloud: Building Language Composition
14:11 Writing Process: Bringing It All Together
15:08 Flexible Support Levels for Different Needs
16:05 Research Foundation: Reading Science Meets Writing
17:03 Making Time: The 10-Minute Solution
18:14 Real-World Application in Schools
20:09 Creating Comprehensive Writing Curriculum
21:22 Final Thoughts & Resources

When teachers, coaches, administrators, and families grow together, they create schools where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged, supported, and ready to thrive.