How do you motivate reluctant writers?

Answer 1

I think it's important to set the students (or writers) up for success, so to speak... by that I mean get their ideas flowing before even getting the pens in their hands... do some brainstorming activities, get them thinking about the topic, make sure it's something they're interested in... and - most importantly - make sure that WHEN they do get down to the writing, they are writing for a reason, not just for the sake of writing. What are they writing? To whom? Why do they want to write it? (Clear objective) Are they petitioning to save wild pigeons in East Asia? Finally, make sure that you are clear on how you want it organized... I've noticed that irrelevant to the age group, there are always a few in the class who still need to be taught how to set up a document, how to lead into topics, and how to conclude well. I hope that helps. Let me know if you need more specific ideas...

Answer 2

I assume that every child who walks through my door wants to do well. Some need more help than others.Diagnostic/prescriptive teaching involves identifying source of problem and working to remediate those weak areas. So, why is the kid reluctant to write?
Poor handwriting? Teach handwriting or allow word processor, Alpha Smart , tape recorder etc.
Poor vocabulary? Make sure they have practice in basic 1000 most often used words, then most often used prefixes, roots and suffixes
Lack of experiences? Go on field trip, or find out what most interests the student and use that as basis for writing assignment
Lack of confidence? Start small and work up, use buddy system , spell checkers etc.
Slow work speed? Do daily fluency exercises. Example: List as many colors ( rock groups, video games) as you can in one minute. Now work with a partner to compare list and make your list longer. Practice , Practice, practice
Not interested? start with taking phone messages, writing notes to each other, writing fan letters to favorite stars, thank you notes, persuasive letters to principal or parents, daily journal etc. A lot of students really get into poetry or science fiction. Look for a writing contest for them to enter. Invent your own contest. They don't need a big award. I've had kids work for a homework pass or cup of hot chocolate.

Allow them to share their writing, in all stages with others. Model, do group practice, surround them with examples of good writing.

Answer 3

II usually start my year with an autobiographical narrative, so they get to write a story involving themselves. I figure start with what they know. Some students have really opened up to me through this, as well.
When I get to more difficult types of writing - documented essays and style analysis - I do a lot of modeling, so they know what to expect. I have even given my freshman an opening paragraph for a particularly challenging assignment and offer extra credit if they use an intro of their own that's just as good. I also allow them to revise any graded essay. It's more important to me that they learn to improve their writing than to punish those who didn't "get it" the first time.

Answer 4

Motivate them by rewards. Tell them that the harder they try and the more into it they get, give them a free day by watching a movie, or let them bring snacks, or a game. Rewards usual give a lot of motivation. But don't be so leaniant on giving it to them Make them earn it.

Answer 5

What do you mean motivate reluctant writers? Elaborate.

Answer 6

Employ a teacher who actually has some imagination.

Answer 7

find out what they're interested in and asign writing projects on their interests