The Four Pillars of the Write Sharp Framework
Teaching Writing the Way Writers Write
When I was growing up, I always wanted to be a writer. But I didn’t have any idea how to make that dream a reality. And although my teachers encouraged me and supported me in that dream (for the most part), they really had no idea how to develop my writing skills, either. To them, being a good writer meant using conventions well. And those were the skills they focused on in my English and reading classes.
But when I started submitting my writing to publishers and editors, I quickly discovered that writing that connects with readers requires a bit more than just correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation. I’ve spent my adult life trying to identify exactly what that “bit more” is—so that my writing skills can improve, each and every day.
Over time, I realized that all writers—whether they are young students or seasoned professionals—develop their skills in four key ways. These ways became the foundation of my Write Sharp framework—the four essential pillars that I used to help my own young writers grow in both confidence and skill.
Pillar 1: Set Up a Regular Writing Routine
Writers know that in order to grow in the craft, they need to make time for writing. Even if it is just for a few minutes each day, writing consistently helps writers build on their skills and develop confidence in their writing voice.
Pillar 2: Read Like a Writer
We learn best by example, and the best writing teachers are real writers. When writers study mentor texts—books, articles, and stories—they begin to understand how writing works.
Pillar 3: Emphasize Progress over Perfection
Great writing doesn’t happen in a single draft! Real writers revise, refine, and rework their ideas.
Pillar 4: Write for Real Audiences
Writing should have purpose! When writers know their work will be read by others, they become more engaged and invested in the process.
By focusing on these four pillars, Write Sharp helps students build strong writing habits that will serve them for a lifetime. When kids write every day, study great writing, embrace the process, and share their work with real audiences, they don’t just learn to write—they learn to love writing.
I hope you’ll join me on this journey to Write Sharp—not only sharpening your own writing skills but also sharing what you’ve learned with all the budding authors you have the joy to teach.
Happy Writing! Happy Teaching!
Nancy, aka N. L. Sharp