Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book explores the power of pedagogical documentation and explores the framework for writer-centered instruction with far greater depth. It offers important perspectives from the fields of psychology and neuroscience, and it includes a number of powerful protocols and reflective tools that will help resistant writers manage their feelings, negotiate better boundaries with themselves and others, and advocate for their needs, especially when we are unable to recognize them. The book sheds light on this phenomenon and the intentional moves that culturally competent writing teachers make to protect the trusting relationships they’ve built with their students while ensuring that the quality of their thinking, learning, and work improves. Teachers who write are far better writing teachers, but becoming a writer is often a daunting and even lonely venture.