Elementary Writers

When we think about an event that happened, we remember it in a logical order, or sequence. In writing, this is referred to as beginning, middle, and ending of the writing piece.

The beginning gives the audience information to make them understand what the piece is about, and interesting enough to keep their interest.

Details about the topic are given in the middle of the writing piece. Depending on the child's age, the number of details varies. Also important is the fact that the details pertain to the topic and are in a logical sequence (if telling about an event or giving instructions).

The ending closes the writing. Some tell the children to basically repeat the opening sentence, but this lacks creativity needed for effective writing. Depending on age, one sentence may do and later two or three sentences may summarize the writing.

Other things to encourage:

• voice - the choice of interesting words
• stick to the topic of the writing
• plan the writing...think before beginning...some children do well with graphic organizers and some do not
• have children read what they have written to check for meaningful details and errors in mechanics...proofreading
• don't dwell on the mechanics - spelling, punctuation, capitalization....this comes with experience...just place it in a special place and call it "under construction." If parents fix the errors, children will not learn this skill themselves.....editing
• revising - if your child recognizes errors and fixes them on their own, be sure to praise. Revising seems to be a hard task for children to see a need for
• publishing your child's work is as simple as placing it on the refrigerator

ABCTEACH is a good site for parents to find information. I am including a link to a checklist for use when discussing the writing piece with your child. http://www.abcteach.com/Writing/checklist.htm

Just a few of the many wonderful books for kids

Writing, no words??? Let's get creative.

All writing doesn’t have to use words? That’s right, introduce your child to photo essays. Decide on a theme, then collect pictures from magazines connected to that theme.
“Write” about the theme chosen. Let your child tell you about how the pictures relate to the theme.
Ask you child to put the pictures in an order that tells a story, and have them tell the story. Such fun and learning together, and a great activity for parent and child.
If your child can cut and paste on the computer, they can use this medium, also. Most of all, your child is learning, having fun, and interacting with one of the most important people in their lives…you!

The pictures included could be used for a theme about a school day routine....sleeping, breakfast, get bookbag, listening in class, homework.

Also, sequence, or the logical order of a story, can be taught. This will also help your child plan a writing later.

Have fun and let me know how it goes!!!

Beginning story paper

Writing for beginners sometimes comes easier if they draw a picture and then write about it.

Several stories can be put together to make a booklet of the child's work.

I am including a link to paper ready to draw and write. The site also included lined paper for beginners.

The paper is certainly not the most important element, but visit the site.

Have fun writing with your child!!!

http://pugsie15.googlepages.com/storypaper

Let your child share the story with sibblings, friends, grandparents...sharing what one writes brings pride!!!

http://www.first-school.ws/t/drawing/story-paper.htm

Active Kids

When asking your child to write a story, make sure it is about something he or she is familiar with or has done.

Children cannot write about what they have never experienced. Older children may be asked to do more than descriptive writing or narrative writing. But to get younger children comfortable with putting their thoughts on paper, ask them to write about something they have knowledge of.

Depending on grade level, this may consist of one sentence, a paragraph, or a story containing more than one paragraph.

After paragraphs are started, always remind you child to have a beginning, middle, and end to their writing.

Curriculum Standards

Each state department has curriculum standards for writing. Visit the state department website for your state and become familiar with the writing standards for your child's grade. These begin in kindergarten. It's a good way to know what your child is expected to achieve in each grade.

Never hesitate to ask your child's teacher about the writing process in the classroom. Some schools may have a Write Night or something similar

for parents and children. If not, suggest they do.

There are numerous sites that give suggestions for helping your child be a better writer. Go Google! Try teacher resources, then writing (search in results).

Lester Laminack

Lester L. Laminack, a full-time writer and consultant working with schools throughout the United States, is Professor Emeritus with department of Birth-Kindergarten, Elementary and Middle Grades Education, at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, North Carolina where he received two prestigious awards for excellence in teaching (the Botner Superior Teaching Award and the Chancellor’s Distinguished Teaching Award).

www.lesterlaminack.com

The above link will take you to Mr. Laminack's website. Please visit just for the pure pleasure of discovering his love for life, children, and writing.

He has written many children's books, but he has also written books for teachers that help in teaching writing. He has a unique approach to writing, and I have seen him in the classroom.

Also, I had the priviledge, several times, to be in activities he was engaged in at our school. Take the time to visit his site, it is worth the visit!!!

Endorsement:I was not paid to endorse Mr. Laminack. I merely wanted to introduce him to any parent or teacher who is not aware of his many talents and dedication to education.