Home School Heartbeat Radio Program

What if my child struggles just to get anything on paper? Are some people simply not going to be good at writing? Tune in as Michael Farris talks about teaching writing with today's guest on Home School Heartbeat.

Mike Farris:


My guest this week has been Dianne Hurst. As a homeschooling mom and a writing instructor, she's seen a lot of students struggle to get a grip on writing. Dianne, do you think all children are capable of becoming decent writers?


Dianne Hurst:


Mike, I am absolutely convinced that any child who has reasonably good critical thinking skills can become at least a decent writer. You know, it's work to write, and it's obviously more work for some kids than for others. But if mom will stick to a few basics and teach them well, then even those kids who are not naturally inclined toward writing can become good communicators. I think the key, though, is to evaluate your child's writing first and foremost, always, for its logical thought progression-you know, not getting sidetracked with bits and pieces of grammar and so forth.


Mike:


Dianne, it seems like a lot of schools emphasize creative writing, without a lot of correction. Do you think homeschoolers should emphasize creative writing?


Dianne:


Only a select few of our students are going to go on to write poetry or novels for a living, so I personally don't believe that this particular subject warrants very much of moms' time and energy. I suggest focusing instead on more structured genres, you know, the essay and the research paper.


Mike:


Thanks so much for your helpful suggestions all week. Kids, get writing! I'm Mike Farris.