Journal of a Black Teacher

by Don Allen, Ed.S., M.A. Ed., MAT (Journal of A Black Teacher)  Introduction      This article focuses on best practices and research-based strategies for teaching middle school students (ages 11–14) academic writing. As an educator working directly with these students, I encounter the daily reality of bridging gaps in their understanding, often starting with small, targeted chunks of knowledge. Adopting a constructivist approach, I aim to engage students in active learning experiences that scaffold their growth, fostering a mindset that sees improvement as achievable and writing as a skill they can develop. One core principle in this process is recognizing the importance of attention in learning. As Zaretta Lynn Hammond notes, “Attention drives learning. Neuroscience reminds us that before we can be motivated to learn what is in front of us, we must pay attention to it.” Applying this to middle school writing instruction means designing lessons that captivate students, making academi