WriteShop Junior is a parent-directed writing curriculum for students aged 8- to 13-years old. These placement guidelines will help you choose the exact starting level in WriteShop Junior.
WriteShop Junior Book D
Target Range: 8- to 11-year-olds
Start with Book D if your 8- to 11-year-old needs to learn how to:
Identify and use proper grammar and punctuation
Identify and correctly use parts of speech
Narrow a broad topic to a specific topic
Brainstorm before writing
Write an adequate sentence
Write a basic paragraph
Choose strong words instead of weak ones
Use editing tools to correct and revise compositions
Start with Book F if your 10- to 13-year-old needs to learn or review how to:
Narrow a broad topic to a specific topic
Use graphic organizers to plan a story or report
Strengthen paragraph development
Improve sentence length
Describe characters, setting, and plot with vivid language
Use dialogue to show, not tell
Write a 5-paragraph composition
Write a research-based report
Most 12- or 13-year-olds can comfortably use WriteShop I instead. Book F can be a good fit for these older students if they would still benefit from hands-on activities. Otherwise, choose WriteShop I.
Each WriteShop Junior level teaches specific skills within a range of ages, making it easier to choose the best place to begin the program. However, age and skill are not the only factors to consider when placing your student. Each student’s reasoning skills, emotional maturity, and ability to express ideas orally are also important considerations. So before you decide on a level, make sure to consider all of the factors.
If you have a non-writer, reluctant writer, or a writer struggling with complex tasks, choose to slow down over starting at a too-easy level. Bear in mind that it’s more important to choose a level that fits your student’s thinking skills, not their grammar, spelling, or writing skills.
If you’re nervous your student has missed some vital skills, you can relax! Each WriteShop course can stand on its own, so you can jump in at any level and know your student will develop all the writing skills they need.
