FAQs

The following are Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Appalachian Mountains Writing Project.

• How is the Appalachian Mountains Writing Project connected to the National Writing Project?

The Appalachian Mountains Writing Project -- or the AMWP -- is a registered site with the National Writing Project, a non-profit organization created to provide writing support and resources to K-14 teachers in all disciplines. It is our goal to help interested teachers of writing throughout Western North Carolina find their own potential as writers and teachers of writing. As the National Writing Project website states: "Writing is the currency of the new workplace and global economy, but more importantly, writing helps us clarify ideas, solve problems, and understand ourselves and our changing world. With writing, we each can leave our mark on the world today and reach toward the future."

• Can teachers in subject areas other than English utilize the AMWP?

The AMWP aims to provide support to all those who love writing and are interested in teaching writing. We are not solely for English or language arts majors, and we are not exclusively for English teachers. We are open to all K-14 teachers in every discipline and subject area. 

• Who can apply to the Summer Institute?

The AMWP Summer Institute is open to K-14 teachers in all subject areas, as well as graduate students. Admission to the institute requires the completion of a four-year degree at an accredited college or university. Residency in North Carolina is preferred but not required. Current and returning graduate students in the Appalachian State University Department of English are particularly encouraged to apply. 

• How do I apply to the Summer Institute?

Applications for the AMWP Summer Institute are handled through the Registrar's office at Appalachian State University. Current and returning graduate students should sign up for ENG 5400 or ENG 5530 when summer registration opens. Other interested participants should sign up for non-credit.

• Can I just attend the Summer Institute without going through Appalachian State University? 

Yes. You can register for the SI as a non-credit participant. You can attend the mornings-only session for 6 Continuing Education Credits or all-day for 12 CEUs. 

• Can I get graduate course credit for the Summer Institute?

Current and returning students in the Department of English at Appalachian State University may apply 6 elective credit hours toward their degree when they sign up for ENG 5400 or 3 elective credit hours when they sign up for ENG 5530. Graduate students in other departments at Appalachian State University will need to check with their program to determine if the credit hours can be applied to their degree. Those who complete the Summer Institute as non-degree seeking students may apply the credit hours to a graduate degree in the Department of English if they enroll in the Appalachian State University Graduate School within 12 months of completion. In this case, the Graduate School application fee also will be waived. 

• What happens at the Summer Institute?

The Summer Institute is an intensive workshop that takes place over three weeks. The online synchronous morning session is held Mondays/Wednesdays/Fridays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Participants who opt for the all-day session will complete both the mornings and asynchronous work offline from 1-4 p.m. Participants will read and discuss books on writing instruction, develop and teach a lesson on writing, and complete an individual writing project. The course also includes technology and arts integration into the teaching of writing, drama, and place-based writing. 

• What are the advantages of participating in the Summer Institute?

The main advantage is an increased knowledge about writing and a better understanding about teaching writing. Participants who complete a Summer Institute are designated as Teacher Consultants and invited to help lead future institutes. Teacher Consultants also are invited to publish writing through the AMWP and work on the AMWP Advisory Board. In addition, the Summer Institute offers participants the opportunity to collect graduate course credit, CEUs, or professional development hours. It also offers badges issued by the National Writing Project. These badges may be used as credentials on email signatures or CVs. 

• How can I get funding to attend the Summer Institute?

Title 1 funds can be used to pay for participation in the Summer Institute. In addition, local school and district grants may be available. 

• Do you have programs for youth?

Currently, we do not have programs for youth, but we plan to initiate these soon. Come back to this website for updated information.

• Who is the contact for the AMWP?

The site director is Dr. Clarice M. Moran, an associate professor of English Education at Appalachian State University. She can be reached by email at morancm1@appstate.edu.