June 24, 2005

Students and kids learn ABCs of writing

Penpals aren't just for hobbies anymore - teachers at both Sacramento State and Florin Elementary are using this pastime to encourage their students to write more often and have fun doing it. The "Writing Partners" program has paired up penpals from a Sac State freshman English class with third graders from Florin Elementary School. The third grade class will make a field trip to the University from 11 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., Wednesday, June 29 in the courtyard of Calaveras Hall to meet their writing partners for the first time, prior to a tour of the campus.

Writing Partners, designed to teach students from both schools writing styles for different audiences, allows college students to share their academic experiences with third graders and encourage them to aim for college in the future.

"Many of the third grade students do not know anyone who attended college," says Sacramento State professor Catherine Gabor, who spearheaded the effort. "The college students make sure the third graders have good academic habits and help the children see themselves as 'college-bound.'"

Sacramento State is the first university in California to participate in the Writing Partners program after its success in other states.

This program is coordinated by Sacramento State's Office of Community Collaboration, which provides opportunities for students to serve the community.

For more information, contact Gabor at (916) 278-6371. For media assistance, contact Sacramento State public affairs at (916) 278-6156.

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