Children's Writing

Page 1

B.M. Kroll

- There are 4 stages in the development of children's writing.

Preparatory Stage

Master basic motor skills.

Learn basic principles of the spelling sysytem.

Consolidation Stage

Child writes in the same way they speak.

Use declarative sentenceswhich include 'and'.

Incomplete sentences are common as they are unsure how to end.

Differentiation Stage

Child becomes aware of the difference between speaking and writing.

Recognises the written styles available. i.e. Letter, essay etc.

Lots of mistakes.

Use a common framework to structure.

Reflect thoughts to create the written work.

Intergration Stage

Child develops personal style.

Understands you can change your syle of writing according to audience.

Page 2

Barclay 1996

- 7 stages to a child's production of writing.

Scribbling Stage - Random marks, writing and scribbles are accompanied by speaking.

Mock Handwriting Stage - Writing and drawing, produce wavy lines (lineation) and cursive writng.

Mock Letters Stage - Each letter is a seperate symbol.

Conventional Letters Stage - Usually involves writing their name, child puts letters on a page, but able to read them as words.

Invented Spelling Stage - Child spells in the way they understand the word to be spelt.

Phonetic Spelling Stage - Attach spelling with sound.

Correct Spelling Stage - Are able to spell most words.