The steps of the writing process are outlined and discussed in detail in the Writers Workshop portion of this web page.
It is not expected that any
child will "achieve a score" on this outline. Rather these are questions that emphasize
areas important to developing writers.
Does your child write for a variety of purposes?
Does your child choose to write as a natural part of his/her communication?
Is your child a self-motivated writer?
Does your child write freely and take risks within this process?
Does your child's writing make sense? Does it communicate his/her ideas?
Younger children often think they have written something when they've actually only thought about writing it. Have them tell you his/her story. When they get to a part that has been left out, say "Where does it say that?" Help them find a way to get it into the story without recopying the whole thing.
Non-fiction style writing
Does your child use reference and research materials where appropriate?
(Age-appropriate research materials of course)
Does your child recognize the need for accuracy in non-fiction writing?
Does your child increasingly include elements of good literature? Do they plan their writing around characters, description of settings, or writing patterns? Do they, perhaps, imitate favorite authors in his/her own writing?
Will your child consult and discuss with others about his/her writing?
Do they seek others' opinions to improve his/her writing?
Will your child share finished pieces of writing with an audience?
Here is another discussion of this topic--
Help Your Child Learn To Write Well from the US Dept of Ed. Office of Research and Improvement. It is very good except for its appalling lack of faith in the schools it supposedly supports.
The steps of the writing process are outlined and discussed in detail in the Writers Workshop portion of this web page.