Creative Writing for Pirates!
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Creative writing is an important part of language arts, but I talk to so many homeschool moms who have fallen into the trap of not teaching enough writing and feeling overwhelmed. The common reason is the difficulty of finding a curriculum that is user-friendly, engaging, and all-in-one.
Where Do You Start When Teaching Creative Writing?
As an English teacher, good writing instruction is key in my homeschool. Sadly, many homeschool moms faced with teaching creative writing just don’t know where to start.
>>>If you live in my area, my in-person writing class is one good choice!<<<
If you don’t live close enough for my in-person classes, you might want to check out A Pirate’s Guide t’ th’ Grammar of Story: A Creative Writing Curriculum by Yogger LeFossa (with help from Christopher R. Hansen.) This unique curriculum is recommended for kids ages 8 and up. It features lessons on crafting different types of stories to be completed independently with guidance from a parent.
The Grammar of Stories
Those who shy away from rigorous grammar instruction (like myself) might find the mention of grammar in the title off-putting. Initially, I was skeptical of A Pirate’s Guide’s approach to writing instruction — after all, nobody likes grammar, do they?
But, as I dug inside, I found that this all-in-one writing curriculum is not a grammar textbook. Rather, it is a workbook that teaches the grammar of stories, implementing the building blocks of plot and character in an engaging way that middle school students can complete independently.
Learning Through Practice
LeFossa follows the philosophy that the best way to learn something is to practice by doing it. Students complete a variety of activities that help bring their stories to life and instill valuable writing skills that help do more than write stories.
A strong grasp of creative writing grants students added confidence for all forms of academic writing they may face through their school careers.
Recommended Ages for A Pirate’s Guide
The publisher recommends this curriculum for ages 8+ to do with help from a parent, and ages 11+ to complete independently. However, this may be a daunting undertaking for a middle schooler who does not have a strong language arts skillset.
A Pirate’s Guide comes recommended if you’re a parent who just needs some extra help guiding your students through the ins and outs of creative writing. The story format of this workbook fits the fun atmosphere necessary for teaching creative writing, so this will appeal even to the most reluctant young writers (with a bit of help from parents.)
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