Writing

The early elementary years focus on teaching a child to be a proficient writer. As a child progresses, the emphasis shifts from writing instruction to ascertaining what a child can write. The articles below help a child become a proficient writer.

Handwriting Basics

Writing Conventions

The Writing Process

Writing By Grade

What is an Emoticon?

The word, emoticon, is a portmanteau; it was formed by combining two words: emotion and icon. Emoticons (also called smiley) are created using symbols and letters found on the keyboard and assist in quickly conveying feelings through email, text messaging and other forms of electronic media. List of Emoticon (Smiley) Similar to how we read,…

Types of Sentences

Words are combined to form sentences. At a minimum every sentence must contain a noun (or pronoun) and a verb. Kinds of Sentences There are four types of sentences – each type has a function and specific use. Declarative Sentence Function: TELLS Use: makes a statement, gives information Ends with a period Examples: I like…

Types of Poetry

Poetry is a piece of writing that usually involves figurative language and lines that have rhythm and sometimes rhyme. Poetry for Children The following 26 types of poems are ideal for a child in elementary school. Acrostic Poem Select a word to write about, e.g. your name. Use the letters of the word and write…

TTQA – Turn the Question Around

Restate the Question TTQA is an acronym for turn the question around and was introduced to both of my children in their primary grades. This writing strategy teaches children to restate the question when answering a question, resulting in an intelligent response. For example, when ask the question, what is your favorite sport? Answer 1:…

The Five Ws

The Five Ws and One H Who, what, when, where and why are commonly referred to as the five Ws. They are used by many to get the full story. For example, writers and police officers use the five Ws to get the complete story. Many add the word, “how” to the five Ws and…

Writing Rubric 4th Grade

A writing rubric assesses the quality of a child’s writing. In fourth grade a child is expected to write a BCR, brief constructed response, that provides details from the text. The fourth grade teacher should review the criteria prior to a child completing his writing assignment. The criteria may need to be explained a few…