Written Expression
Self-directed organizational strategy
Appropriate Grade Level: Students with learning disabilities 6-8
Procedures/Steps: This strategy uses fingers to associate them with parts of
instruction.
 Thumb: associated with the introduction, which includes restating the
topic sentence, student states his/her opinion; student is to write 3
reasons to support his/her opinion.
 Index, middle, and ring finger: all associated with the first, second,
and third reasons that support the opinion of the initial topic.
 Pinkie finger: represents the conclusion of the essay. First, student
states his/her conclusion. Secondly, student restates topic of the topic
of the writing prompts. Third, summarizes his/her reason for opinion.
Lastly, student relates opinion to the original topic.
Comments and/or tips:
 Make drawing of fingers along with the parts that are associated
visible in class
 Begin teaching this lesson with modeling
Source:
Barry, L.M., & Moore, W. E. (2004). Systematic strategy instruction makes
a difference. Preventing School Failure, 48, 10-13.