An Eye On Curriculum

Helping Your Child To Write - Yrs 3-6

As your child moves through Primary School, he or she will begin writing longer creative pieces, writing in different genres, and exploring non-fiction and persuasive writing.

Some general tips to help with your child's writing in these years include:

>> Continue to encourage them to write for everyday skills. This includes writing recipes,              family messages, shopping lists and greeting cards.

>> Make sure they have an appropriate place to write, such as a desk in a quiet room.

>> Provide stationery, such as coloured pens and pencils and different coloured paper.

>> It is always helpful to discuss the writing topic with your child before they start to write.         This will give your child ideas and confidence to begin their writing.

>> After discussing the topic your child is writing about, you may wish to write down a few          arguments or story plot points to help them. The can expand on these points. 

>> Encourage your child to write creatively in different genres, such as fantasy, realism and            adventure.

>> Encourage your child to write different types of literary texts such as poems, short plays            or film scripts.

>> Use a book your child has read as a springboard into creative writing.

>> Persuasive writing will become a focus at school, particularly in high school. Encourage            your child to write down their opinions and ideas about specific issues.

>> Encourage your child to edit their work for mistakes before they show you. They should            also make sure the writing makes sense.

>> Using a thesaurus helps to expand your child's vocabulary.

Some fun activities might include:

>> Encourage your child to keep a diary where they record their feelings and experiences.

>> Write a review of a book or film. Encourage your child to have an opinion about the                    relative good and bad points, and how the film could be improved.

>> Create 'found poetry.' Pick 20 random lines and phrases from books or poems and                      arrange these lines into a new poem. It can be fun to discuss the different possibilities of          joining different lines, and the changes in meaning these create.

>> Give your child a topic that has two clear sides. Ask your child to write a few paragraphs           outlining their arguments for and against. 

>> If your child has recently finished a novel or film, ask them to write creatively in response        to it. They might write an alternative ending, a short sequel, or write a series of diary                  entries from a character's perspective.

Digital writing and creating

We now live in a world full of digital technology. To give your child the best chances of success in literacy, it is important that your child becomes comfortable with technology and can use various technologies to share their ideas and show their creativity. 

Some activities your child might do include:

>> Create a website with a specific interest in mind, such as a hobby, a sports team, or an                historical event that interests them.

>> Write a blog on a hobby or interest.

>> Write a short film script and then shoot the film using a mobile phone or ipad. Use editing         software to edit the film and create titles.

>> Write a radio script and then record the script using a mobile phone or ipad.

>> Write emails to family members or friends.

>> Use presentation or slide software to create presentations for the family about a recent              family holiday, or about something of personal interest.