Given structural and stylistic guidelines like this, students can know more precisely what the finished product should look like, which promotes enthusiasm, gives confidence and encourages sincere effort.

#4 Over-Expectation. How many of us might be guilty of saying (or thinking): "You had that word on your spelling test just a few weeks ago. How could you spell it wrong in this story?" "And can't you be a little neater?" It is, without question, difficult for anyone to catch their own mistakes, but while striving to keep a student motivated, it is important that we, as teachers, not forget this fact: Spelling, Handwriting and English Composition are very different neurological functions. These activities don't even happen in the same areas of the brain. Not that spelling and handwriting are not important-- they are. But they are very different activities than English composition, which is the logical combination of words into acceptable patterns. For many young children, writing neatly requires full concentration. For many, stopping to determine the correct spelling of a tricky word can derail a whole train of thought. Adults often find it difficult to "do everything at once" when it comes to spelling, neatness and composition.

Separate complexity. Allow children to focus on one aspect of writing without expecting them to do everything right the first (or even second) time. Finished products should reflect excellence, but not instantly. Always look for something to compliment--a good point to reinforce--first, before pointing out a careless error or awkward expression. Success breeds success, and you, the teacher must be the coach, not the judge. With practice, repetition, age, maturity and motive, most children will grow to produce work that is well-written, correct and neat. But don't expect it to happen all at once, yesterday.

Teaching, like writing, is an art. We practice; we improve. Just as we try to guide our students to be effective--while avoiding mistakes--in writing, we must likewise endeavor to recognize and avoid the most deadly errors when teaching. Certainly none of us will become the perfect teacher, but if we continue to strive toward that goal, all will benefit: parents, teachers & children alike.

Copyright 2007. Originally used with permission.

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