How to Read Your Child's Papers

Every student writer can benefit from advice on how to improve his or her writing. When your child shares writing with you, it is a great way to learn more about what's on his or her mind and gives you an opportunity to encourage your child as a writer. Here are some tips to keep in mind when giving feedback to your child:

	Have your child read the paper aloud to you while you listen. Take notes on anything that you want to bring up after your child is finished reading. A response form is a great place to write notes to your child about the paper.
	When he or she has finished reading, start by saying what you like about the paper. Your comments should be specific. Say what images stood out for you, what words were well chosen, or point out details that made the writing come alive.
	Ask specific questions about the writing. Ask about specific parts of the paper that confuse you or that need clarification.
	Make suggestions that might improve the writing. Offering specific advice such as to use a stronger verb in a particular sentence or include a personal anecdote to illustrate a point is helpful. Remember that it is up to your child, the writer, to decide how to incorporate feedback.

	It will help your child develop editing skills if he or she is the one checking for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. Every writer need a second or third pair of eyes to edit their writing but your child should also take responsibility for checking their writing.

Note: If the paper you are reading is a school assignment, it will be helpful to know your child's teacher's expectations for the assignment. If your child isn't clear, it's a great idea to check with your child's teacher about his or her approach to writing instruction and what criteria are used to evaluate student writing.

Many schools use the six-traits of effective writing to guide their writing instruction.

See Also:

Peer Editing for Students

The Six Traits of Effective Writing for Students

Writing Process page.

Grammar Help