A child's connection to reading can be strengthened with a short writing
activity after a book has been read. This book includes several journal
responses from which to choose. The responses may be used with
nonfiction or fiction and may even be adapted for poetry and plays.
Select the journal response that is most appropriate, and give your
child time to write a short response to the prompt. If your child is
struggling to come up with a response, ask specific questions. For
example, with the journal response that asks why you didn't like the
book, you could say, "I remember you frowned when I read about ... Did
that part bother you?" If your child is a reluctant writer, here are
some quick tips you could try: - Hold the pen while your child tells you
what he or she would like to write. Sound out the words as you write the
letters. - Sound out the letters as your child is writing the words. -
Ask your child questions that may help him or her write the answer. -
Ask your child to connect the book to his or her life and ask how. -
Allow your child to use the computer to respond. Help make the writing
activity enjoyable by allowing your child to respond to whatever he or
she related to. When reviewing your child's work, respond to the content
of his or her writing rather than the mechanical errors. Journal writing
should be viewed as a quick, fun way to give an opinion or extend the
learning. A log has been included at the end of this guide. We recommend
that you fill it in whenever your child responds to a text.
