The development of writing
Punctuation, grammar and handwriting It is important for children to learn about punctuation, grammar and handwriting as their writing must be read and understood by other people. The styles of punctuation and grammar are changing and local authorities have guidelines for preschools and schools. The glossary (page 438) includes an explanation of some punctuation and grammatical terms.
Chapter summary Children learn before they go to school that writing is different from spoken language. Written language is highly decontextualised. When writing begins, children experiment with written symbols and drawing. Their writing progresses through many phases from beginning, earlyemergent, emergent, early, transitional and extending. Writing influences children’s reading as children have to slow down and think about written symbols when they are writing, and this helps them apply the symbols when they are reading. Teachers can assess children’s writing for ideas and print conventions and, based on what children can do, plan the writing program in response to this. As children’s writing develops, they begin to proofread, revise and edit and they become aware of punctuation, grammar and handwriting.
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