How to Improve Writing Skills in Middle School

A compilation of our apps and websites that we have been using for distance learning with success.

Whether we are teaching remotely or in the classroom, it is important to invite students to document their writing process and to stay focused while they do so.

Here are some websites that will help students to improve their writing: 


Website to review one’s own writing process:
Draftback for Google Docs - This would be cool for students to do once they have finished an essay as a reflective learning tool. Students could create a “director’s cut” or authorial intent of their writing and explain their thinking by playing draftback and a screen recording website/app.


Websites as tools/assessements that support the writing processes with AI feedback:


Writable, Gradeproof, WriQ, or Ecree

Websites for time management and focus:
Pomodoro Timer or Stay Focused extension for Google Chrome

Websites for students who need extra writing support and help:
Writable or Essay Pop

Websites for providing feedback on student writing:
Kaizena, Screencast-o-matic, Screencastify, or Quicktime

Websites to help students document and cite sources:
Zbib or Wizdom

Websites for digital portfolios:

One Note

We’re sure that you have seen, heard of, or have used these websites in your classroom, but hopefully there was something new on this list that you might be able to utilize in your classroom this year. There are so many great websites out there to help teachers and students with their writing instruction and learning. Leave a comment down below on what are some of your favorite websites to help students with their writing.

Happy teaching!