*This is a collaborative post
One of the first things a child does in their life is learn how to speak. From there they learn how to form sentences and take part in long and joyful conversations. As time goes by, they attend school where teachers show them how to effectively read and write, beginning the process of laying the foundation for future endeavours. However, one thing that is introduced a little later in a child’s life, is how to write essays. In the UK, the majority of exams, especially at GCSE, are essay based, meaning students need to have outstanding writing skills on hand to ensure their exams are completed well. As a parent, there are a few things that you can do with them at home which will be discussed below. Here is some advice from this prep school in Gloucestershire, on helping your child develop their essay writing skills.
Encourage reading
It cannot be emphasised enough how important reading is for learning. Reading is what helps to create the foundation for strong writing skills. Do your best to encourage your child to read as many genres as possible, as this helps to expose them to different writing styles and perspectives. You can also use this time to discuss the books that they read, and look into different forms of writing such as articles and poems. Reading is also great for enhancing vocabulary, grammar, and critical thinking skills, all which help to provide a solid base for essay writing.
Go through the writing process
Essay writing is unique to other forms of writing practiced in school, so it is definitely worth going through the process which includes planning, drafting, revising, and editing. Teach them how to brainstorm ideas, create outlines, and argue their points. To practice, get them to write up some drafts on the same exam question, and follow by providing them with constructive feedback to help them improve their structure and content. By doing so, your child will be ahead of the game when it comes to practicing essay writing in school.
Developing strong essay writing skills is a journey that will require patience and perseverance, but is something that will help your child become a confident writer, a skill that will benefit them both academically and in future endeavours too.
