The Writing Lab

The Writing Lab is a complex of three computer labs where all students work on their writing for any subject. Located on the third floor, it is used to facilitate the curricular emphasis on writing in the English department, as well as writing-across-the-curriculum initiatives in all disciplines.   Students write in a variety of forms: essays, poetry, reports, narratives, letters, blogs, memoir, brochures, op-ed pieces, news articles, and more. In addition, the Lab is used for a variety of other learning activities such as researching, exploring subject-specific software, and creating Power Point presentations.  Students are also welcome to pursue their own creative and personal writing. Typically, teachers sign up to bring their classes, but students may also come on their own from individual classes and team time.

Writing Lab Hours

The Writing Lab is open before school at 7:40 a.m., Monday through Friday. The Lab remains open after school until 3:35 p.m., Monday through Thursday, although it must occasionally be closed for staff or departmental meetings.  On Fridays the Lab closes at 3:00 p.m. Students may also work in the Lab during team time if space is available. 

Role of the Writing Clinician

The Writing Clinician is an English teacher who works with students and teachers to foster the development of confident and competent writers.  She helps students learn and apply strategies for effective writing at all stages of the writing process by conferencing, teaching mini-lessons, facilitating assessments, and collaborating with teachers to develop materials and lessons.

In addition to overseeing and scheduling the labs, the Writing Clinician coordinates a number of programs: the Parent Volunteer Program, which trains volunteers to conduct focused writing conferences with students about their writing assignments; The Outlook, which is the school’s literary magazine; and Guest Writers, which includes Poet-in-Person and other writers’ visits.

Important Links for Students

Criterion

Important Links for Teachers

Writing Lab Procedures for Teachers

Seating Chart - Room 303

Seating Chart - Room 305