The Genius Ladder

Have you ever wondered how you can get your students to write better? The more time I spend learning about WBT the more I discover! Check out this video:




You can check out the second part of this video here:




In true WBT style, the basics are used to teach the student how to write a sentence. This can then be used  to write paragraphs and from paragraphs to pages. It still allows the student to use gestures and gives them a chance to teach their neighbors while exploring this concept.

The students first learn how to create better sentences orally and then after figuring this system out the begin writing them down. It also teaches parts of speech. Change the genius ladder to fit your needs by having students replace the parts of speech you are wanting to focus on. 

So how long does it take to teach? About 10 minutes when you first introduce this concept. As children become familiar with this technique and begin to use it on their own it will take less time.


This image is from Rand and was created for a smart board. I love how it shows each of the 4 stages in an easy format.



I tried this out with my nine-year old. He loves to write. He is always wanting to improve his writing but he hates being taught how to write. 

He LOVED this. He wanted to know why I kept it a secret for so long. He got out his dictionary and went to town improving his latest story. His brothers wanted to know what he was doing so he showed them the ladder.

He then taught his younger and older brother HOW to write a better sentence. I love the fact that this was so exciting to him that he got his brother who hates to write, writing by choice!

You know how I love creative ideas, right! Check out this Genius Ladder created by Mrs. Valdes!

So as you can see.... this is a tiny part of the board but look at the little guys on the rope climbing up the board! I love this little detail. I am so gonna have to snag this and use it in my room. Mrs. Valdes has some great ideas for decorating so stop bye and check it out.

Our students truly are climbing up the ladder and improving their skills using the genius ladder. I love the visual to help remind the students of their goal.

I am off to figure out where I can find me some little climbers!






If you are a WBT teacher or learning about WBT, join our linky party! We would all love to meet you!