It's not always easy to teach kids how to write. The methods in this three-part series can simplify the process for both you and your students. As a writing teacher, you will have the greatest success by using predictable books to teach writing. Once you have outlined a simple story as shown in part two, follow these guidelines to complete the exercise.
Day 2
Gather your outline, some blank paper, and a pen or pencil. Your child can re-tell the story (out loud!) to refresh his memory - let him use the outline to stay on track.
Next, your child will write a sentence for each line of his outline. The sentence does not need to be an exact replica of the original paragraph. In fact, your child may improve on what was originally written. When he finishes each line of the outline, he will have a completed paragraph.
If your child is young, you might let him tell you each sentence while you write it down for him. At this point, you (the teacher or parent) should edit the paragraph for spelling and punctuation. Notice I did not say rewrite the sentences or add words. Let this be your child's writing, not yours.
Older students who are capable of editing their own work for spelling and punctuation should do so on day three.
DAY 3
On the last day of this lesson, have your child re-write the completed paragraph or story. Make sure that the new copy has been corrected for punctuation and spelling - older children can do this themselves, while younger children may need some help. Don't expect your child to be great writers overnight. You will find areas which need improvement, and you can incorporate these concepts into later lessons. Best of all, your child won't waste time hunting for a topic; they can put all their efforts into learning the skills needed to become an effective writer.
You can repeat this simple activity until your students are able to outline and re-write paragraphs on their own. You can use paragraphs from a variety of content areas such as knights.
You will be amazed at this great method for teaching your students writing.
Day 2
Gather your outline, some blank paper, and a pen or pencil. Your child can re-tell the story (out loud!) to refresh his memory - let him use the outline to stay on track.
Next, your child will write a sentence for each line of his outline. The sentence does not need to be an exact replica of the original paragraph. In fact, your child may improve on what was originally written. When he finishes each line of the outline, he will have a completed paragraph.
If your child is young, you might let him tell you each sentence while you write it down for him. At this point, you (the teacher or parent) should edit the paragraph for spelling and punctuation. Notice I did not say rewrite the sentences or add words. Let this be your child's writing, not yours.
Older students who are capable of editing their own work for spelling and punctuation should do so on day three.
DAY 3
On the last day of this lesson, have your child re-write the completed paragraph or story. Make sure that the new copy has been corrected for punctuation and spelling - older children can do this themselves, while younger children may need some help. Don't expect your child to be great writers overnight. You will find areas which need improvement, and you can incorporate these concepts into later lessons. Best of all, your child won't waste time hunting for a topic; they can put all their efforts into learning the skills needed to become an effective writer.
You can repeat this simple activity until your students are able to outline and re-write paragraphs on their own. You can use paragraphs from a variety of content areas such as knights.
You will be amazed at this great method for teaching your students writing.
About the Author:
Kerry Beck helps homeschool moms and classroom teachers in narrative instruction. Check out her free mini-course about middle school writing now.
