Writing is a very technical process when starting out as a young writer and there are so many things to think about. This means children can often get bogged down with the technical aspects of writing rather than enjoy the story telling process. Writing can be very daunting for a new writer as it can become more about the spelling and grammar than the narrative and language used. However, when you read a story it is the narrative and language that makes a story come to life. The world we live in is changing and it is important to also change as writers and use the tools that we have at our disposal. This means that using technology is not cheating!
As a teacher I only ask my pupils to write if it was meaningful and purposeful. Give them a reason to write. They can write instructions, menus, letters to loved ones, joke books, comics or birthday cards for example. There are lots of writing competitions (BBC Radio 2, 500 words https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/4n1HgL2GFCWDmCtq9Sx5kKB/500-words-2020) or organisations which will publish their work in a book that they can then purchase. This can make writing purposeful, meaningful and gives them control over what they want to write. There is a lot of research which shows the importance of a child 'buying into the task' and understanding the relevance of it. Explain the purpose of the task, and not only will they be learning, but the piece of work will be valued and needed.
Motivation is often a key factor when working with a child. However, this can look different for each child. What are their interests? Do they like competition against themselves or others? Are they motivated by rewards? Are they motivated by using technology?
Using a range of different resources and multi-sensory techniques can be enticing and motivational for any child. For a child with dyslexia this can help fire up the connections in the brain and aid memory of new skills or words. Many boys naturally like technology and practical activities, so use this as an advantage. When spelling use Lego, magnetic letters, a white board and pen, use a light up writing tablet or doodle Apps. Use available technology, for example text a message to a family member, email a friend, make a PowerPoint to present information, type up a story ready for editing and publishing or make their own website showcasing one of their interests. The possibilities are endless! Once they know they can use other tools other than pen and paper they will then come up with their own ideas for writing.
I think it can feel like cheating if a child has to use assisted technology, but the fact is we all use it. From early on show them it is acceptable to use spell checker, to use an online thesaurus, to use technology to read out documents or to use reading pens for books. This is all part of normal life! When a new way of writing is opened up to them they will then be able to enjoy the process and reap the rewards of writing.
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