Primary English
At The Young Writer's Table, we strive to inculcate a love for the English language by reading a variety of texts and by teaching specific skills which would help our students become better writers.
Writing better is simple. In order to write better students should:
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Write consistently in the simple past tense.
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Know the difference between simple sentence structure and complex sentence structure, passive voice and active voice, and when to use each.
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Keep their plot simple: two main characters / one location / one time-frame.
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Know the basics of story structure (inciting incident / rising action / climax / denouement)
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Know the difference between verbs of state and action verbs and appreciate how and when to use each.
The trick to writing well really lies in the use of appropriate verbs.
Students complete a comprehension exercise every week; the passage of which is usually an extract from a famous novel. This would be followed up by a lesson on craft (use of symbolism / tone of narration / dramatic irony...) To conclude, students would be given a short writing exercise, where they are encouraged to apply what they've learnt to their writing. We work on an essay topic over the course of two lessons.
Writing Fundamentals
Students learn the principles that govern the English language.
Students learn how to write experiences rather than live in the minds of their character through the use of clear and simple action verbs and appropriate verbs of state.
Students understand the four forms of sentence structure and when to use each form.
Advanced
Writing Technique
Students understand the relationship between dramatic irony and non-chronological story-telling.
Students appreciate the use of organic metaphors and similes.
Students develop their writing craft by experimenting in writing different forms.
Introspection and
Creative Expression
There is very little teaching here but a lot of listening to the students. What motivates the student to write? What do the students want to write and why? What is the student's unique writing style and how can that be further developed.
