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The How to Write Book

Publisher: Teaching & Learning Company
Author: Ellen Hajek
Review last updated: 2009		 Instant KeyPublishers InfoPricingProduct Photos

The How to Write Book

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The publisher suggests using this resource for grades 3-6, but I suggest trying some of the ideas with younger students to develop a proper attitude and approach to writing before they get stuck in a typical workbook approach to writing. This workbook can be used by older students working independently for the most part.

Author Ellen Hajek stresses thinking and planning before writing. Within that process, students identify their audience and purpose, crucial steps in good writing. Models and simple instructions make the writing process "non-threatening."

Children work with an assortment of assignments that range from very short and simple, such as circling topic sentences, through the complex tasks of writing formal reports, poetry, essays, and short stories. Along the way they learn about paragraphs, planning, topic sentences, letter writing, book reports, news reports, outlines, titles, mechanics, style, and proof reading. Many of these topics are dealt with briefly, but taken altogether, this is a good resource for developing writing skills.

The one criticism I have, and one that most of your children will pick up on immediately, is the amateur artwork. The book is self-contained. There are only a few of the exercises that have definite answers, and those answers are provided at the back of the book.

Pricing

also available as an ebook from the publisher

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    • The How-to-Write Book

    The How-to-Write Book

    Ellen Hajek

        Instant Key

        • Suitable for: one-on-one or group teaching plus independent work
          Audience:           grades 2-6
          Need for parent/teacher instruction:            moderate
          Prep time needed:           minimal
          Need for Teacher's Manual:            this book is your manual
          Religious perspective:
          secular

        Publisher's Info

        • Teaching & Learning Company

          1204 Buchanan St.
          PO Box 10
          Carthage, IL 62321-0010

          (800) 852-1234
          (217) 357-6789
          email: customerservice@teachinglearning.com
          www.teachinglearning.com