Writing
Interview with Ralph Fletcher
It took months of persistence, but Ralph was finally able to take a few moments from his crazy schedule to answer a few of my questions. As you likely know, Ralph Fletcher is the industry guru for boys and writing. For years I've freely promoted his book, Boy Writers, as my favorite for getting boys to write - be sure to read my book review. Here are the highlights from my interview with him...
How to Get Boys Writing with “How-to”s
How-to topics appeal to boys' desire for practical, concrete and hands-on information. Reading or writing this sub-genre of non-fiction is appropriate for boys of any age group, reading level, or with any interest – sports, science, hobbies, anything!
Ideas to Get Boys Writing
Like boys and action, reading and writing go hand-in-hand. Both are critical skills for literacy. It is through writing that boys will learn to formulate thoughts and improve their creativity and thinking skills.
Unfortunately boys who are reluctant to do one, usually resist the other as well. Here are five ideas, that utilize activities and interests that most appeal to boys, to get them writing:
Comic Books Belong in Schools
There’s a comic book store in my small town. I never went in it until recently; it’s located right next to the tattoo parlor and gives off a rather shady vibe. Boys lurk about (many tattooed) with paper bags that carry their latest comic-book purchase.
Technology and Boys' Literacy
Those troubled that the advancement of technology is turning our kids into imbeciles should take a look at this article from Wired magazine: Clive Thompson on the New Literacy.
Digital Storytelling: Engaging Boys with Technology
Storytelling is one of the most powerful ways that people relate to one another. Through stories, whether fact or fiction, we share experiences and communicate information to one another. Digital Storytelling - which utilizes technology to tell stories - is a modern interpretation of an ancient form of communication.
How it Works
With digital storytelling, boys tell their story using various technologies and media instead of just the traditional paper and pen. They use visuals and audio narration such as: photos, artwork, video clips, music and audio clips. These materials are combined together to create a multimedia story.
Using the Internet to Motivate Writing
Would you like to encourage the budding author in your students or son? Well there is good news. Valuable resources are as close by as the computer he uses to chat online with his friends!
There are a number of great resources online that can encourage creativity and writing for kids.
Online Writing Communities
The communities provide inspiration in the form of story ideas, tips, games, reviews and writing prompts. Some sites even have interactive environments that encourage kids to create stories about the characters they find there, like this one at KidsOnTheNet.com – http://www.kidsonthenet.com/motel/motel/welcome.html.
