Welcome! 

Our goal is to help produce confident writers who enjoy the study of language. The reason we study language/writing is so we can apply what we learn in everyday situations. The students learn how to effectively communicate with readers and are able to use this knowledge in real life applications. The study of language and writing is much more than dissecting sentences and committing a list of grammar rules to memory. It includes learning rules for writing, but it also encompasses learning the concepts that are critical to effective written communication.

The Essentials in Writing strategy involves several components:  

1.  Students watch Mr. Stephens as he teaches/reviews each concept in a methodical, step-by-step approach.  Then students proceed with worksheet activities or writing assignments.

2.  Mr. Stephens presents content and writing assignments small "chunks" to help students understand, apply, and retain concepts.

3.  Writing assignments are modeled by Mr. Stephens.  After a new or reviewed concept has been taught, he actually "shows" students HOW to apply the new concept in writing.

Essentials In Writing was founded by Matthew Stephens.  He was a middle school English teacher in the public school before his creating Essentials in Writing.  He has taught at almost every grade level and is an excellent teacher!