Are you a parent with a child preparing for the 11 Plus exams? Are you worried about your child’s creative writing skills, which are a critical part of the exam? If so, you’re not alone. Many parents, particularly mums, have concerns or a keen interest in preparing their child for these competitive exams. This blog post will explore some of the most effective ways to develop your child’s creative writing skills and help them ace the 11 Plus exams.
Why Are Creative Writing Skills Important?
Creative writing skills are vital to success in the 11 Plus exams. The exams require students to write creatively, persuasively, and informatively to showcase their skills. Research has shown that creative writing is a critical component of literacy development and contributes significantly to children’s overall academic success. Children who excel in creative writing tend to perform better in other subjects, such as English, science, and maths. It helps in the development of critical thinking, vocabulary, and comprehension skills. In addition, the 11 Plus exams specifically test creative writing skills, so it’s essential to focus on them.
Statistics show that the pass rate for the 11 Plus exams is around 20%, with competition for places intensifying year on year. Therefore, it’s vital to give your child the best possible chance of success by equipping them with strong creative writing skills.
Effective Ways to Develop Your Child’s Creative Writing Skills for 11 Plus Exams
Encourage Reading
Reading is fundamental to improving writing skills. Encouraging your child to read extensively, both fiction and non-fiction, can help them develop their creativity, imagination, and vocabulary. Reading a variety of genres, including newspapers, magazines, and online articles, can also broaden their understanding of different writing styles and help them adapt their writing to different audiences.
It’s essential to choose books that are appropriate for your child’s reading level and interests. You can also discuss what they’re reading and ask them to summarise the story or key points. This exercise will help develop their comprehension skills and the ability to articulate their ideas effectively.
Regular Writing Practice
Writing practice is essential to improving your child’s creative writing skills. Encourage your child to write daily, whether it’s a journal entry, a story, or a persuasive essay. Writing regularly will help them hone their skills, identify areas for improvement, and develop their writing style.
It’s important to allow your child to experiment with different writing styles and genres. Encourage them to try writing poetry, short stories, or even scripts for a play. This exercise will help them develop their creativity and explore new ways to express themselves.
Use Prompts
Sometimes, children can get stuck on what to write about, especially if they lack inspiration or motivation. Using prompts can help overcome writer’s block and encourage children to think creatively. Prompts can be anything from a picture, a single word, or a scenario, and can be found in books or online.
Using prompts will help your child to develop their imagination and challenge them to write about unfamiliar topics. This exercise will help them to build their confidence and develop their writing skills.
Develop a Writing Routine
Establishing a routine for writing can be helpful in developing creative writing skills. Encourage your child to set aside a specific time each day for writing, whether it’s before school, after school, or in the evening. Developing a routine can help them to develop discipline and a regular writing habit.
It’s important to create a comfortable writing space where your child can write free from distractions. Provide them with a notebook, pens, and other writing materials to help them get started.
Seek Professional Help
If you’re concerned about your child’s creative writing skills, seeking professional help can be beneficial. Geek School Tutoring and 11 Plus Essay are two fantastic resources that can help improve your child’s writing skills, build their confidence, and prepare them for the 11 Plus exams.
Geek School Tutoring offers a range of writing courses, including one on creative writing for the 11 Plus exams. They also have a YouTube channel with plenty of informative videos to help parents and children prepare for the exams. The videos cover topics such as how to plan and structure an essay, how to develop characters, and how to use descriptive language effectively. The channel also offers advice on how to manage exam anxiety and how to prepare for the exams mentally and emotionally.
11 Plus Essay offers online writing courses and one-on-one coaching to help children develop their writing skills and master the art of creative writing. The courses cover topics such as grammar, punctuation, and spelling, as well as more advanced topics such as how to write a persuasive essay, how to write a story with a twist, and how to use figurative language effectively. The coaching sessions are tailored to your child’s individual needs, and the tutors provide constructive feedback to help them improve their writing skills.
Both resources offer excellent tips, strategies, and resources to help your child succeed. They also provide support and guidance to parents, who may not be familiar with the 11 Plus exams and how to prepare their child for them. They understand the pressures and anxieties that come with the exams and work closely with you and your child to ensure that they are well-prepared and confident.
In conclusion, developing creative writing skills is a crucial part of preparing your child for the 11 Plus exams. Encouraging your child to read, practice writing, use prompts, develop a routine, and seek professional help can help them improve their writing skills and ace the exams. With the right guidance and support, your child can achieve great things and secure a place in their desired school.
Remember to choose books that are appropriate for your child’s reading level and interests, encourage them to experiment with different writing styles and genres, create a comfortable writing space, and seek professional help if needed. Geek School Tutoring and 11 Plus Essay are two excellent resources that can help your child develop their writing skills and build their confidence.
Help your child to unlock their creativity and excel in the 11 Plus exams by implementing these effective ways to develop their creative writing skills.
