In the previous blog post I mentioned the reasons so many students struggle with writing. After several disappointing experiences with other programs, parents often ask me what I do differently. The curriculum I have today has proven to be effective for many students over the years and results from much testing and refining. Each course includes vocabulary enrichment, grammar/punctuation, literary analysis, and writing techniques. Depending on the ages and needs of the students, topics such as Etymology of words, journalistic writing, public speaking, and research techniques are integrated, some as units and some as subsections of lesson plans.
Most importantly, our setting being free of report cards provides a safe environment, where young writers don’t feel judged or pressured to perform. They can make mistakes without losing marks and experiment with various genres and styles before discovering their true strengths.
A friendly audience is a crucial part of the process. Writing must be done in groups, where it can be read to and by others. My students look forward to seeing their writing displayed. They take it more seriously, knowing it will be read by others. Everyone takes pride in it, once it gets displayed on the web, in the classroom, or shared with parents and other students.
Informative and stimulating reading materials on a variety of topics are offered in each lesson. Genre and form can range from classical poetry and fiction to articles on the latest research and scientific innovations, from history of art to advice columns in popular media and even annual reports. This wide variety of readings provides something to analyse, share opinions, and write about.