Writing
We are putting more of a focus on improving the children's writing skills this term, looking closely at their handwriting, punctuation, spelling and word choices. We will be celebrating successes and improvements being made as the term develops.
How can you help at home?
Provide a place for your child to write
Ideally, this would be somewhere that is quiet and well lit. Stock the “writing centre” with supplies such as paper, pencils and crayons.
READ, READ, READ!
The best activity to improve writing is reading. If your child reads good books, they will be a better writer. Reading exposes students to general vocabulary, word study and content-specific vocabulary.
Encourage your child to keep a reflective journal
This is excellent writing practice, as well as a good outlet for venting feelings. Encourage your child to write about things that happen at home and school. This reflective journal can be used to develop the “senses” of writing.
Provide authentic writing opportunities for your child
Have your child write their own thank-you notes, party invitations and letters to family. Let your child make the grocery list. Finding a pen pal for your child would make writing “real.” Helping children make the connection between writing and the “real” world will increase an interest in writing.
Be a writing role model
Make sure your child sees you as a writer. Point out times that you use writing to communicate with others. Discuss authentic writing in the community, such as articles and letters in the newspaper, on billboards or in written advertisements.
Start a vocabulary notebook
Teach your child new words each week and encourage her to use them. Make it into a game and give points for using the new words. Your child can keep a vocabulary notebook and get rewarded for the number of new words learnt. The words will begin to appear like magic in her oral language and writing.
When writing at home, ask questions!
Always ask your child questions when he writes. Ask specific questions about your child’s writing such as: “How did that happen?” “How did that make you feel?” “Can you tell me more about that…?” “What are some other words you could use to describe…?”
If your child creates a piece of writing outside of school that he or she is proud of, please do share it with us. Our aim is to improve the children's motivation and pride in their ideas and efforts.
