What is SRSD?

A Proven Framework for Teaching Writing That Works in Real Classrooms

SRSD (Self-Regulated Strategy Development) is an evidence-based instructional approach that helps students become confident, organized, and effective writers. Developed through decades of research, this method combines explicit writing strategies with tools for self-regulation, so students not only write better — they take ownership of their process.

The SRSD framework was developed by Dr. Karen Harris, Dr. Steve Graham, and colleagues. It has been further studied by expert researchers that include Alyson Collins, Stephen Ciullo, Susan De La Paz, Debra McKeown, Leslie Rogers and Leslie Laud. Visit our chart of research studies page to see the latest studies.
It is the most extensively studied approach to writing instruction, grounded in decades of peer-reviewed research. At think SRSD, our team’s peer-reviewed studies specialize in translating this powerful model into real-world classroom success — helping educators implement SRSD with clarity, confidence, and results.

📘 Download our 4-page brochure to quickly understand how to use this approach with your students in a light-lift and high-yield way.

Benefits & Features

Explicit, Structured Writing Strategies
Students learn how to plan, organize, write, revise, and reflect step by step.
Built-in Self-Regulation Skills
Students develop confidence, persistence, and motivation through modeling, goal setting, and reflection.
Proven Across Grades & Populations
From early elementary to high school, and across diverse learning needs, SRSD adapts and delivers.

What does think SRSD offer?

We offer sets of lessons (developed and tested in research studies), or – also offers a seamless quick-path to integrate these strategies directly into your existing programs and coaching systems.

We offer:

Live teacher mentoring (unlimited support)
Professional development from educators who have used SRSD
Documented school success stories with a proven track record of double-digit ELA proficiency % gains on state tests
Flexible integration, rather than solely sets of lessons
Community and collaboration in regular monthly, job-alike or similar interest network meetings

think SRSD is a comprehensive system that students use to direct themselves through the writing process and continuously set new goals for themselves. It fosters equity because it systematically and explicitly teaches the skills, strategies and self regulation that good writers use.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What grades is SRSD for?

K–12. We tailor our approach based on your students.

Does SRSD replace our curriculum?

No. SRSD is designed to integrate seamlessly with what you already use.

How is thinkSRSD different?

We offer live mentoring, flexible integration, and real-time support — not just a static program.

Is SRSD research-based?

Yes. SRSD is backed by decades of peer-reviewed research and proven implementation in schools nationwide.

Can we customize the SRSD approach?

Absolutely. We help schools embed SRSD into their existing workflows and align with state standards.

Built by Teachers. Backed by Research. Focused on Results.

thinkSRSD is led by Dr. Leslie Laud, a teacher, principal, researcher and national consultant who has served as Principal Investigator on multiple federally funded studies. With real classrooms at the center of everything we do, we’re proud to help districts nationwide transform writing instruction.

About Us

thinkSRSD is the community of teachers and researchers who use and study SRSD. We offer SRSD in-person professional development and e-learning courses taught by teachers with decades of experience using SRSD. The teachers at thinkSRSD have taught SRSD courses for over 10 years, since offering the very first open enrollment course in SRSD in 2008.