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The Writing Instruction Support program in the Western Libraries Learning Commons sponsors an annual working session that offers Western Washington University faculty a chance to gain ideas and new practices on teaching and assessing writing.

The “backwards by design” approach begins with identifying discipline-based threshold concepts and works back to instructional practices and activities for teaching them.

The working retreat also gives faculty a chance to work on their own course materials in the company of colleagues from across campus who share a commitment to supporting our students’ learning and writing proficiency. Individuals, as well as colleagues working on a common course, are welcome.

This year’s retreat is scheduled for Aug. 26 to 28 at Western’s Shannon Point Marine facility in Anacortes.

Agenda topics include:

• Day 1 - Design: disciplinary concepts, course syllabus, evaluation schemes
• Day 2 - Enactment: creating assignments, engaging practices
• Day 3 - Results: Learning activities, show & tell demos

All expenses (lodging for a shared room, meals and materials) are covered, and transportation will be arranged. Space is limited, so those interested in attending should pre-register asap by emailing writinginstructionsupport@wwu.edu. For more details, contact WIS director Carmen Werder, who will facilitate the workshop, at carmen.werder@wwu.edu or 360-650-7329.