Help with writing assignments   

Syndicated column from The Parent Institute

[MARCH 17, 2006]  Q: My teenager is not a very good writer. The problem is that she doesn't like to ask for help. I try to offer constructive criticism when I read over her assignments, but she doesn't accept this very well. How can I help her with her writing?

A: It's natural for you to want to help your daughter improve her writing, but when you read over one of her assignments, do you immediately look for errors? Your daughter may become easily discouraged about her writing if you only point out what's wrong. Instead of being a critic, boost your daughter's confidence and build on her writing strengths.

Start by finding something specific to praise. Did she come up with a catchy title? Does the introduction grab your attention? Are the descriptions in the third paragraph particularly good? Point out your favorite sentence, the sequence of a part that flows well, the use of a certain word or phrase, etc.

Just as an overemphasis on errors can hamper skill growth, praising everything your daughter writes can also distract from real needs to improve. So take care not to praise too much. Instead, try offering the following checklist your daughter can use as she tackles a writing project:

__ I've read through the entire piece to see if it makes sense.

__ My writing is focused on one important topic or idea.

__ The title is catchy. It fits the piece.

__ The introduction captures the reader's interest.

__ My writing flows logically from one concept to another.

__ I replaced vague words with specific ones.

__ I shortened sentences that were too long and wordy.

__ I deleted or replaced overused words.

__ I checked spelling, punctuation and capitalization.

__ New paragraphs are indented.

__ I followed instructions for the bibliography exactly.

__ I followed all the directions from my teacher.

The ability to express herself in writing is not only an important skill your daughter needs in high school. It's also a key to success in college and in business. Here are some ways you can help your daughter build this skill:

• Give your daughter a journal. Encourage her to write about what she does and how she feels. She can also include lists of goals, poetry and song lyrics.

• Encourage writing in real-life situations. Ask your daughter to write a letter requesting information or to settle a bill or problem with a merchant.

• Suggest she write a letter to the editor, or have her prepare a press release to publicize school, church or club activities.

• Be a model. Let your daughter see you writing letters or prose. Share thought-provoking or funny articles or editorials you discover.

[The Parent Institute]

For more information about helping children learn or to submit your own question, go to http://advisor.parent-institute.com. All questions will receive a prompt answer by e-mail.

Copyright 2006, The Parent Institute

"Ask the Learning Advisor -- Ideas for Raising Successful Children" is a free, syndicated column from the Parent Institute.