First graders learn to count and practice it every day. Every year new skills are added and drills and flashcards reinforce the learning on a daily basis. Reading is handled in much the same way. Letters, phonics, and words are imploded on children in K-I throughout their day. Special time is held sacred as teachers work each day to encourage improved letter recognition and reading.
Literacy depends on a student's ability to read.
Writing begins as students learn to form letters and place them carefully into words. Once basic skills are in place, writing expands into other content areas. As children write, they develop a sense of worth based on how they view their writing and how their peers and teachers view their writing. The WW model developed in the 1980's by Donald Graves allows students the time they need to work on writing skills. The model promotes an in-process style of writing that gives children time to work through their writing step by step.