Defends
Ellis, E., & Lenz, K. (1987). A component analysis of effective learning strategies for LD
students. Learning Disabilities Focus, 2, 94-107.
Alley, G.R. (1988). Effects of generalization instruction on the written language
performance of adolescents with learning disabilities in the mainstream classroom.
Reading, Writing, and Learning Disabilities, 4, 291-309.
This writing strategy is designed as a composition strategy. It is intended to help
students write a paper defending a position.
Decide
• Decide on an exact position.
Examine
• Examine the reasons for the positions.
Form
• Form a list of points that explain each reason.
Expose
• Expose the position in the first sentence.
Note
• Note each reason and supporting points.
Drive
• Drive home the positioning the last sentence.
Search
• SEARCH for errors and correct.
 See if it makes sense
 Eject incomplete sentences
 Ask if it’s convincing
 Reveal COPS errors & Correct
• Capitalization
• Overall appearance
• Punctuation
• Spelling
 Copy over neatly
 Have a last look