Power Writing Frequently Asked Questions

What is Power Writing?
Power Writing is a unique numerical approach to the writing process. Taught in a One to One setting, it is a dynamic tool designed to help students, grades 2 through 12, dramatically improve their writing skills that is not typically taught in schools. Students learn how to develop their ideas through graphic organizers and apply a systematic structure to their writing. Writing concepts are introduced through interactive games and activities designed to reduce a student’s anxiety surrounding written expression. When properly employed, Power Writing significantly increases a student’s ability to express ideas and concepts clearly in written form.

Who benefits from this program?
Power Writing is designed for students who are intimidated by the writing process and do not know where to begin, as well as students with a wealth of ideas who have difficulty expressing themselves in written form. The program can be adjusted to meet the needs of all students, at all writing levels. Additionally, Power Writing is designed to be kinesthetic and multi-sensory, appealing to all types of learners. Each session begins with a series of dynamic and interactive activities that lead into the written work. Power Writing is available to students from grades 2 through 12, in One to One or semi-private classes.

Is Power Writing an enrichment or remediation program?
Power Writing can be used effectively with students seeking both enrichment and remediation.

Enrichment: Used as an enrichment program, Power Writing is ideal for students ready to broaden their craft, and practise these news skills through a variety of writing genres (e.g., narrative, expository, or descriptive prose).

Remediation: Used as a remedial program, Power Writing’s systematic approach provides students with a clear and concise map to composing written work. This approach is beneficial for students with Learning Differences, such as reading, written expression, and executive functioning issues as well as ADD/ADHD.

What does Power Writing teach?
Power Writing teaches students a systematic approach to building sentences, paragraphs and ultimately essays. It provides a clear starting point for any topic, teaching brainstorming skills and strategies to organize thoughts. Power Writing also enhances writing style, and aids students in developing sentence variety, sophisticated vocabulary, and written fluency. Power Writing unlocks creative writing possibilities, demystifies the writing process, and increases confidence.

What is the numeric approach to Power Writing?
Power Writing’s numeric approach aligns traditional terms such as introductory sentence, supporting details, and elaboration, with numbers. This eliminates the confusion frequently attached to this commonly used vocabulary. The Power Writing method identifies the topic sentence as a “Power 1,” in order to indicate that it is the initial component of a written piece. Following this, a system of “Power 2s” and “Power 3s” support and explain this main idea. Power Writing also employs a menu of key transitional phrases, known as Signal Words, to enhance writing fluency. Students are given clear examples and the time to practice the Power Writing techniques.

How is this program delivered?
The program is delivered according to a Direct Instruction pedagogy. This highly effective instructional method involves the explicit teaching of concepts in a strategic and systematic manner. This approach greatly enhances student understanding of the topic presented, and allows for the mastery of new skills. The Power Writing program is taught on a One to One basis, or through semi-private classes.

Why is Ruth Rumack’s Learning Space a great place to learn about Power Writing?
We have been teaching Power Writing to our One to One students for several years and have perfected a dynamic, interactive and accessible way to teach the program. Our students have benefited greatly from Power Writing.

What are the instructors’ specific qualifications?
All Power Writing instructors have either B.Ed or M.Ed certification. They have extensive classroom and One to One experience, and are well trained in the program. All teachers are supervised by the Director of Education, who is also a certified teacher.

Will my child receive a Power Writing workbook?
Yes. The Power Writing course includes all materials and a student workbook with ample resources and regular assignments. We encourage parents to familiarize themselves with the workbook contents and the Power Writing method.

Will there be homework?
Students will be sent home with short assignments to complete between classes in order to reinforce the Power Writing lessons. Homework will be reviewed and feedback will be provided. Power Writing can only be fully effective if the homework is completed.

Will my child’s grades improve by studying Power Writing?
Generally, grades will improve when Power Writing strategies are used, due to the clear and concise structure Power Writing teaches. However, RRLS cannot guarantee exact results as there can be a number of variables that affect academic success. Learning to write effectively is an ongoing process, and each individual learns in his or her own time. RRLS offers a great opportunity for students to dramatically increase their skills and confidence, and reach milestones they never thought possible.

Where are these services delivered?
Power Writing is delivered at our downtown office, 720 Spadina Avenue, Suite 300.  All lessons are One to One, meaning that one teacher works with one student at a time, in a private learning space.

Can I organize my own group class with other parents?
Yes. RRLS will teach privately organized classes at a convenient time and location.

Can Power Writing be delivered in my home?
One to One and semi-private lessons can be arranged at your home. Call today for more information 416.925.1225.

How Do I Start?
You can book a first assessment by e-mailing us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , or if you need more information please call 416.925.1225.

Is Power Writing available for license?
Power Writing is available by licensing agreement to schools and other educators. Click here to learn about Licensing Opportunities.