From the Assistant Principal
Between the Lines
I run a Writing Club on Mondays at lunchtime in the library. Everyone’s welcome. This term, we are writing a story that must include two human characters (a waiter and a dog walker), one non-human character (an angel), a pet shop setting, a complication (a mysterious gift) and five random words (whistle, light, gold, bubbly, hungry). Students work individually or in small groups and we’re having such silly fun trying to include each of the items into our stories. Of course, some children are a little reticent when it comes to putting pen to paper. Last week, a parent and I brainstormed ways in which his children could be encouraged to write more. Here is our list, which you might find helpful:
- Write messages, emails, letters and old-fashioned postcards to family members.
- Make greeting cards and party invitations.
- K
eep a diary or a journal when you go on a trip or holidays. This is especially valuable if you’re travelling and your child is missing school. Collect printed material such as brochures, leaflets and tourist guides to include in the journal.
- Set up a home message board and write a message each day. Allow your child to compose the message sometimes.
- Have your child compose a little love note to put in mum or dad’s lunchbox - or you could put one in theirs!
- Leave plenty of writing materials in an easily accessible place (eg a cardboard box with paper, little notebooks, old greeting cards, pencils, crayons etc).
- Write down a story your child tells you. Let your child add drawings. Keep the ‘book’ and read it often. (A word to the wise: Remember to date it and keep it. In ten years’ time, you’ll find it hard to remember in which year your child authored this adorable composition!)
- Compile lists for particular reasons: Birthday Gift Ideas. Shopping list. Jobs to Be Completed.
- Enter competitions online.
- Make scrapbooks about favourite stars, sports or interests.
Do you have questions about supporting your child’s reading and writing at home? Send an email to petra.cole@cg.catholic.edu.au.
Petra Cole
Assistant Principal