Improving writing outcomes through book-based learning: a randomised control trial
This study, called 'Improving writing outcomes through book-based learning,' is looking at a new teaching programme called Writing Roots. It's designed for primary school children (aged 6 to 10) and uses a book-based approach to help them explore different types of writing. The main goal is to see if this programme can improve children's writing skills and make them feel more confident about their writing. Researchers will compare children in schools using Writing Roots with those in schools that continue with their usual lessons. The study particularly focuses on Year 2 and Year 5 pupils to understand the impact across different primary school stages. It hopes to show if this fresh approach can make a real difference to children's learning in the UK.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is investigating a new way to teach writing in primary schools across the UK. It's called the Writing Roots programme, and it's all about using different books to help children improve their writing skills and feel more confident. Imagine learning to write by reading lots of exciting stories and then trying out different writing styles yourself – that's the idea behind it.
The researchers want to find out if children who use the Writing Roots programme get better at writing and also feel more positive about their own writing abilities compared to children who learn in the usual way. They're particularly interested in children in Year 2 (around 6-7 years old) and Year 5 (around 9-10 years old) to see how the programme works for different age groups in primary school.
This study matters because good writing skills are really important for children's learning and future. By studying Writing Roots, the researchers hope to provide clear information about whether this new teaching method is an effective way to help children become better, more confident writers. This could help schools choose the best ways to teach writing in the future.
Key takeaways
- The study explores a new, book-based way to teach writing to primary school children.
- It aims to improve children's writing skills and confidence.
- Children in Year 2 and Year 5 will participate through their schools.
- There are no known risks for children involved in this study.
- The findings could help improve future literacy teaching in UK schools.
- The study runs from November 2024 to September 2026.
Who may be eligible?
This study is for primary schools in the UK, not individual children directly. To take part, schools must be state-funded and teach all years from 1 to 6. They also need to ensure that most classes are not mixed-year groups, or that there are no more than two mixed-year groups.
If a school is chosen for the study, children in Year 2 and Year 5 during the 2025/2026 school year will be included. Parents will be asked for their permission for their child to take part. It's important to know that if your child’s school is already using the Writing Roots programme, or has used programmes from Literacy Tree in the last two years, they won't be able to join this particular study. Also, schools taking part in other specific research trials funded by the Education Endowment Fund cannot be included.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Is my child in Year 2 or Year 5 during the 2025/2026 school year?
- Is my child's school a state-funded primary school?
- Does my child's school teach all year groups from Year 1 to Year 6?
- Is my child's school NOT currently using the Literacy Tree's Writing Roots programme?
- Has my child's school NOT used any Literacy Tree programmes or training in the last 2 years?
- Is my child's school NOT taking part in certain other specific education trials?
What does participation involve?
If a school gets involved, it will be randomly put into one of two groups: an 'intervention' group or a 'control' group. Schools in the intervention group will start using the Writing Roots programme for a whole school year. Their teachers will receive special training from Literacy Tree at the start of the year, along with access to teaching materials, books, and online tools to help them deliver the programme.
Schools in the control group will continue teaching writing in their usual way. Before the programme starts and again at the end of the school year, children in both groups will do a short writing task. This helps the researchers measure their writing ability. Additionally, Year 5 children will complete a survey about how confident they feel about their writing. The study will run from November 2024 to September 2026, covering one full academic year for the programme's delivery and assessment.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (2)
- RAND EuropeCity onlyCambridge, United Kingdom
- Primary schoolsApproximate-, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is 'Writing Roots'?
Writing Roots is a new teaching programme that uses books to help primary school children improve their writing skills and become more confident.
Which children are involved in the study?
The study focuses on children in Year 2 and Year 5 in primary schools during the 2025/2026 school year.
How long does the study last?
The study will run from November 2024 to September 2026, with the teaching programme and assessments happening over one academic year.
Are there any dangers for children taking part?
No, there are no known dangers or risks for children involved in the Writing Roots programme activities or the assessments.
Who is paying for this study?
The study is funded by the Education Endowment Fund (EEF), which is an organisation that supports research into what works best in education.
How to find out more
Elena Rosa Speciani
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
Community discussion
Powered by our forum at community.patient.info. Please be respectful — this is not medical advice.