
                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: MONDAY, November 20, 1995                   TAG: 9511220005
SECTION: NEWSFUN                    PAGE: NF-3   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: 
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Short

TEACHER OF THE WEEK

It wasn't until Karen Campbell threw away the book that she really began to teach her pupils how to write.

Campbell, known as one of the top creative writing teachers in the area, has developed her own strategy that doesn't include textbooks or manuals for teaching children the art of writing.

"I try to teach composition," Campbell says. "And, I make sure I have them writing every single day. Writing is the basis for everything they do."

Campbell, who teaches language/arts to sixth-graders, says she also loves teaching reading, especially to children who may not love books as she does. "I think I can sometimes turn kids onto books just by picking the rights ones," she said.

Campbell participates in Natural Helpers, a guidance program in which pupils identify particular peers and teachers whom they would feel comfortable confiding in. Participants help counsel the pupils, and Campbell says her participation has helped make her a better listener.

Married and the mother of three children: Allison, 13; Chad, 11; and Kara, 7, Campbell enjoys sewing and reading.

by CNB