The AMS Elementary Writing Certificate Program is designed to shift teaching writing in a way that promotes collaboration and curiosity in the learning environment while significantly increasing students’ interest in writing. Participants will develop an understanding of the essential role of writing in recognizing students’ identity and intellect. The writing continuum, the Six Traits of Writing framework, and the Elementary Montessori curriculum make writing individualized, fun, and meaningful for each child. Participants will leave with effective tools and lessons that empower children by strengthening their writing creativity.
We are now accepting registrations for the following cohort. See detailed timeline below:
Cohort 1 (Summer/Fall 2023): June 26 – October 15 with a one month break in September to reflect and connect with your students.
You will join a cohort for a two part class. The program consists of 6 modules of self-guided study and live experiences held via Zoom. The class is split into two sections. Part 1 is theoretical. Part 2 offers strategies and tools to explore writing within your own environments and the children you work with. There will be assignments that are designed to be reflective and to enhance your understanding of the essential role of writing for Elementary, both in theory and in action.
For: Elementary 1 (6 – 9) and/or Elementary 2 (9 – 12) Montessori credentialed teachers, school leaders, and interventionists
Format: A blend of live (synchronous) experiences held via Zoom and on-demand (asynchronous) content
Time Commitment: 36 – 40 hours total (please see timelines below)
CPD Hours: 36 - A certificate of AMS Professional Development hours will be emailed upon completion. An opportunity to purchase a CEU certificate for 3.6 CEUs will also be made available upon completion of the class at a cost of $28.
Cost: $800 non-members | $650 AMS members
Upon successful completion of the program, you will be awarded an AMS Elementary Writing Certificate attesting to your mastery of the program.
Group Discounts Available
AMS is excited to offer a variety of discounted group packages for this class. Group registrations must first contact us to be discounted.
5+ registrants: 5% discount
10+ registrants: 10% discount
20+ registrants: 15% discount
30+ registrants: 20% discount
Program Modules & Outcomes
Using a Continuum
Adult learners look at connections among self, children, and the curriculum using the writing continuum.
Making Writing Engaging
Adult learners experience personalized writing practice as a way of understanding how to increase children’s writing engagement in their classroom.
The Six Traits of Writing Part 1
Ideas, Voice, Word Choice—Adult learners create a plan to bring fun, hands-on writing into their classroom using the Six Traits of Writing framework.
Writing Continuum and Assessment
Adult learners look at student-centered assessment data (self-assessment, peer feedback, individualized teacher conference) to connect it back to the writing continuum.
The Six Traits of Writing Part 2
Sentence Fluency, Organization, Conventions—Adult learners explore how to differentiate the use of the traits for each child.
Writing and the Great Lessons
Adult learners discuss the roles of Great Lessons in children’s writing engagement.
Cohort 1 (Summer/Fall 2023)
Timeline
June 19: Registration deadline
June 26 – July 16: Part 1 of the program begins: Live sessions will be held via Zoom on Mondays, 7:00 – 8:15 PM (ET).
September 25: Part 2 of the program begins: Live sessions will be held via Zoom on Mondays, 8:00 – 9:15 PM (ET).
Modules 1 – 3 June 26 – July 16 Live Sessions via Zoom on: June 26, July 3, and July 10, 2023
Modules 4 – 6 September 25 – October 15th
Live Sessions Via Zoom on: September 25, October 2, and October 9, 2023
Meet the Facilitator
Kim Anh Anderson
MEd in Literacy and Curriculum Design
AMS-credentialed (Early Childhood, Elementary I – II)
Lifelong Learner | Garden Nurturer | Creative Thinker
Kim Anh (first) Anderson (last) has worked for almost two decades with youth and college students to find their excitement in creative writing. Her continued work with the local chapter of the National Writing Project and the Montessori teaching method has brought joy to countless Montessori youth writers over the years. As a practitioner, she has used creative writing as a self-care tool, a path to navigating her professionalism in both her mother tongue and English, and as a way to model to her young students how to find their own powerful and creative voices.
Special thanks to Dr. Vanessa Rigaud, Xavier University; Dr. Gay Ward, University of Wisconsin; and Linda S. Zankowsky, EdD, University of Delaware; for their service in the development of this program.
Looking for more Elementary professional development?
The AMS Elementary Reading Certificate Program is designed for Montessori teachers who are interested in applying the science of reading by engaging the most recent research-based strategies for teaching reading in their Montessori classroom.
AMS members get unlimited access to AMS Learning on demand videos for free! AMS membership is only $101. Learn how you can save on professional development, discounts to events, and more.
