The four square writing method is a step-by-step, concrete instruction that could fit into any reading or language art program and should suppliment other writing practice (such as shared writing, journals, letter writing, etc.) The instruction is based on the expository style of writing, but examples and teaching tips are provided for the narrative, descriptive and persuasive styles too.

These visual techniques build on strategies to develop ideas and organize thinking. It helps the student learn and think. I believe graphics play a key role in improving student achievement. This method teaches organizing skills to be used across the curriculum that helps conceptualize, understand and structure student work. Students learn how to sort and categorize with graphic organizers. They learn how things are connected and learn to group information. Students build upon prior knowledge and ponder new information. They often show what a student knows, but also what they don’t know. Graphic organizers show wrong information as well as areas of needed information.

This book is written by teachers for teachers. I believe it is very organized, explaining their method in a logical progression of steps. The techniques of visual learning support writing for all students.

Visual learning enable students to work with ideas and information in graphical ways. They learn to clarify their thinking and to process, organize, and prioritize new information.

Explicit instruction is needed in the primary grade levels to give students a framework as a beginning tool to writing assays in the future. The book gave me several good hints and ideas to take back into the classroom.