GBHS

APS SARFRAZ RAFIQUI ROAD

LAHORE CANTT

ECLC Action Research 2022-23

TOPIC: IMPROVING WRITING SKILLS AT EYS-2

LEVEL

Submitted by UZMA BATOOL

 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Sr. No. Title Pages

1 Abstract 1
2 Introduction 2
3 Findings 5
4 Objective of research 8
5 Research Questions and Solutions 9

6 CONCLUSION 18
ABSTRACT

This research explores strategies for improving writing skills in preschool children. The

study emphasizes the significance of early writing development for overall literacy and examines

factors influencing writing skills. Effective instructional strategies, including play-based

approaches and explicit instruction, are identified.

The findings provide practical recommendations for educators and parents to enhance

preschoolers' writing abilities and promote a positive writing environment. By implementing

these strategies, children can develop strong foundational writing skills early on, setting them up

for future academic success.

1
INTRODUCTION

Rationale and the Background

Writing skills play a crucial role in a child's overall development, even at the

preschool level. The ability to communicate thoughts and ideas through writing forms a

foundation for academic success in later years. Developing strong writing skills in

preschool lays the groundwork for future literacy and language proficiency. Early

exposure to writing also enhances cognitive, motor, and socio-emotional development in

young children.

At the preschool stage, children begin to explore written language, experiment

with mark-making, and develop an understanding of the connection between oral and

written communication. These early writing experiences help children develop fine motor

skills, hand-eye coordination, and cognitive processes such as memory, attention, and

problem-solving.

Purpose and Significance of the Research

The purpose of this research is to investigate effective strategies for improving

writing skills in preschool children. By understanding the factors that influence early

writing development and identifying instructional methods that foster writing proficiency,

educators, and parents can better support young learners.

This research is significant because it addresses the gap in knowledge regarding

specific approaches to enhance writing skills at the preschool level. By identifying

effective practices, educators and parents can provide targeted interventions, ensuring

that children develop the foundational skills needed for successful writing in the later

years of education.

2
Research Objectives and Questions

The research objectives for this study are as follows:

1. To identify the key factors influencing the development of writing skills in

preschoolers.

2. To examine existing theories and models related to early writing development.

3. To explore effective instructional strategies and interventions for improving

writing skills in preschool.

4. To assess the impact of specific interventions on the writing proficiency of

preschool children.

5. To provide practical recommendations for educators and parents to support

the development of writing skills in preschool.

The research questions that will guide this study are as follows:

1. What are the key factors that influence the development of writing skills in

preschool-aged children?

2. What theories and models explain the process of early writing development in

preschoolers?

3. What instructional strategies and interventions have been effective in

improving writing skills in preschool?

4. What is the impact of targeted interventions on the writing proficiency of

preschool children?

5. How can educators and parents implement practical strategies to enhance

writing skills in the preschool setting?

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 By addressing these objectives and research questions, this study aims to contribute to

the existing knowledge base on early writing development in preschool and provide practical

recommendations for educators and parents to support children's writing skills effectively.

4
LITERATURE REVIEW

Overview of Existing Research on Early Writing Skills in Preschoolers

A comprehensive review of existing research on early writing skills in

preschoolers reveals valuable insights into the developmental trajectory of writing

abilities during the early years. Numerous studies have highlighted the significance of

early writing experiences and their impact on children's overall literacy development.

Research suggests that even before formal instruction, preschoolers engage in pre-writing

activities, including scribbling, drawing, and imitating writing behaviors.

Studies have explored the progression of writing skills in preschool, indicating

that children gradually transition from making random marks to producing letter-like

forms and eventually to conventional writing. Additionally, research has focused on the

connection between emergent writing and language development, fine motor skills, and

cognitive processes.

Key Theories and Models related to Writing Development in Preschool

Several theories and models have been proposed to explain the development of

writing skills in preschool-aged children. The socio-cultural theory emphasizes the role of

social interaction and cultural context in shaping children's writing abilities. According to

this theory, children acquire writing skills through observation, imitation, and

collaboration with more skilled individuals, such as teachers and peers.

The emergent literacy theory suggests that children begin to understand the

functions and conventions of written language long before formal instruction. This theory

highlights the importance of literacy-rich environments, exposure to print, and supportive

interactions with adults as key factors in early writing development.

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 The cognitive development perspective explores the cognitive processes involved

in writing, such as planning, organizing thoughts, and translating ideas into written form.

According to this perspective, preschoolers gradually develop these cognitive skills,

leading to improved writing proficiency.

Factors Influencing the Development of Writing Skills in Preschoolers

Several factors influence the development of writing skills in preschoolers. These

include:

1. Language skills: Strong oral language skills provide a foundation for writing.

Preschoolers with rich vocabulary, expressive language abilities, and phonological

awareness tend to demonstrate better writing skills.

2. Fine motor skills: Developing fine motor skills, including hand-eye coordination,

grip strength, and finger dexterity, is crucial for precise writing movements.

Activities that promote fine motor skills, such as manipulating small objects,

cutting, and tracing, can support writing development.

3. Literacy-rich environment: Exposure to print, books, and writing materials in

the preschool environment fosters an interest in writing. A print-rich environment

that encourages exploration and provides opportunities for writing practice

enhances writing skills.

4. Socio-emotional factors: Emotional factors, such as self-confidence, motivation,

and perseverance, influence a child's engagement and effort in writing activities.

Nurturing a positive attitude towards writing and providing a supportive and

encouraging atmosphere can positively impact writing development.

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 Effective instructional strategies and interventions for improving writing skills

Research has identified several effective instructional strategies and interventions for

improving writing skills in preschoolers. These include:

1. Play-based approaches: Incorporating play and hands-on activities into writing

instruction promotes engagement and creativity. Pretend play, storytelling, and

using props can stimulate children's imagination and encourage writing.

2. Explicit instruction: Providing explicit instruction on letter formation,

lettersound correspondence, and basic writing conventions supports preschoolers'

understanding of written language. Scaffolded instruction, modeling, and guided

practice are effective instructional techniques.

3. Integrated approaches: Integrating writing into various learning domains, such

as literacy, science, and social studies, enhances meaningful writing experiences.

Engaging children in writing about their observations, experiences, and

investigations across different subjects promotes writing skills across contexts.

4. Individualized support: Recognizing that children develop at different rates,

providing individualized support tailored to each child's needs can be beneficial.

Assessing children's writing abilities and providing targeted interventions can

address specific areas for improvement.

By reviewing the literature, it is evident that early writing skills in preschoolers are influenced by

various factors, and effective instructional strategies can significantly enhance writing

development. Understanding these factors and implementing evidence-based interventions can

empower educators and parents to effectively support preschoolers in their journey toward

becoming confident and proficient writers.

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REGARDING RESEARCH

Objective of the Research

The overall purpose for conducting this action research was to study and adapt

practical ways and strategies to improve “Writing Skills” in Preschool students.

Demographics of Participants

• Total number of students were 40.

• Level of studies was PRE-1.

• The age of each student was 6-7 years, on average.

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RESEARCH QUESTIONS AND SOLUTIONS

Key Factors that Influence the Development of Writing Skills

The development of writing skills in preschool-aged children is influenced by several key

factors:

1. Language skills: Strong oral language skills, including vocabulary, grammar, and

phonological awareness, provide a foundation for writing. Children with a rich

language background are more likely to develop better writing skills.

2. Fine motor skills: Developing fine motor skills, such as hand-eye coordination,

finger dexterity, and grip strength, is essential for precise writing movements. The

ability to control writing tools and form letters relies on these motor skills.

3. Literacy-rich environment: Exposure to print, books, and writing materials in

the preschool environment fosters an interest in writing. A print-rich environment

that encourages exploration and provides opportunities for writing practice

supports writing development.

4. Socio-emotional factors: Emotional factors, including self-confidence,

motivation, and perseverance, influence a child's engagement and effort in writing

activities. Nurturing a positive attitude towards writing and providing a supportive

and encouraging atmosphere can positively impact writing development.

5. Instructional support: Effective instructional strategies, such as explicit

instruction on letter formation, letter-sound correspondence, and basic writing

conventions, can enhance writing skills. Scaffolding, modeling, and guided

practice are important elements in supporting preschoolers' writing development.

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 6. Individual differences: Each child develops at their own pace, and individual

differences play a role in writing development. Recognizing and addressing

individual needs through targeted interventions and tailored support can facilitate

progress in writing skills.

By considering these key factors, educators and parents can create a supportive

environment and implement appropriate strategies to promote the development of writing skills

in preschool-aged children.

Theories and Models Regarding Early Writing Development

Several theories and models explain the process of early writing development in

preschool-aged children. Some of the key theories and models include:

1. Socio-cultural theory: This theory, proposed by Lev Vygotsky, emphasizes the

role of social interaction and cultural context in shaping children's writing

abilities. According to this theory, children acquire writing skills through

observation, imitation, and collaboration with more skilled individuals, such as

teachers and peers. It highlights the importance of social interactions and the

sociocultural environment in the development of writing skills.

2. Emergent literacy theory: The emergent literacy theory suggests that children

begin to understand the functions and conventions of written language long before

formal instruction. It recognizes that children engage in pre-writing activities,

such as scribbling, drawing, and imitating writing behaviors, as they explore

written language. This theory emphasizes the significance of literacy-rich

environments, exposure to print, and supportive interactions with adults in

promoting early writing development.

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 3. Cognitive development perspective: The cognitive development perspective

explores the cognitive processes involved in writing. It emphasizes how

preschoolers gradually develop cognitive skills, such as planning, organizing

thoughts, and translating ideas into written form. According to this perspective,

children's writing development is linked to their cognitive abilities, including

memory, attention, and problem-solving.

4. Stage models: Various stage models have been proposed to describe the

developmental progression of writing skills in preschoolers. These models outline

the different phases or stages that children typically go through as they develop

writing proficiency. Examples include the pre-communicative stage (random

marks), the semi-phonetic stage (letter-like forms), and the conventional stage

(conventional spelling). These models provide a framework for understanding the

sequential development of writing skills.

These theories and models offer valuable insights into the process of early writing

development in preschoolers. They highlight the importance of social interaction, literacy-rich

environments, cognitive processes, and developmental stages in shaping children's writing

abilities. By considering these theories, educators, and parents can design appropriate

interventions and provide support that aligns with the underlying theoretical frameworks.

Instructional Strategies and Interventions for Improving Writing Skills

Several instructional strategies and interventions have proven effective in improving

writing skills in preschool-aged children. These strategies and interventions include:

1. Play-based approaches: Incorporating play and hands-on activities into writing

instruction can enhance engagement and creativity. Pretend play, storytelling,

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 using props, and incorporating writing into dramatic play scenarios stimulate

children's imagination and encourage writing.

2. Explicit instruction: Providing explicit instruction on letter formation,

lettersound correspondence, and basic writing conventions helps preschoolers

develop foundational skills. Explicit instruction involves breaking down writing

tasks into clear steps, providing demonstrations, and guiding children through

practice opportunities.

3. Integrated approaches: Integrating writing into various learning domains, such

as literacy, science, and social studies, fosters meaningful writing experiences.

Engaging children in writing about their observations, experiences, and

investigations across different subjects promotes writing skills across contexts and

supports their understanding of how writing can serve different purposes.

4. Interactive writing: Interactive writing involves collaborative writing

experiences where the teacher and students write together. This strategy allows

children to actively participate in the writing process, contributing ideas,

practicing letter formation, and learning from guided support. It promotes shared

responsibility and provides scaffolding for developing writing skills.

5. Fine motor activities: Engaging children in fine motor activities, such as

manipulating small objects, cutting, tracing, and threading, supports the

development of the hand muscles and hand-eye coordination required for writing.

These activities help children develop the necessary motor skills and strengthen

their grip.

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 6. Individualized support: Recognizing that children develop at different rates,

providing individualized support tailored to each child's needs is essential.

Conducting ongoing assessments, identifying specific areas for improvement, and

implementing targeted interventions can address individual challenges and

promote progress in writing skills.

7. Modeling and guided practice: Modeling the writing process and providing

guided practice opportunities are effective instructional strategies. By

demonstrating how to form letters, write words, and construct sentences, and then

gradually providing support as children practice independently, educators can

facilitate the acquisition of writing skills.

8. Meaningful writing experiences: Providing opportunities for children to engage

in authentic and meaningful writing experiences enhances motivation and

purpose. Writing letters, creating cards, making lists, and writing stories based on

personal experiences or interests encourages children to apply their writing skills

in real-life contexts.

By incorporating these instructional strategies and interventions, educators and parents

can effectively support preschoolers in developing their writing skills, fostering a positive and

enriching writing environment.

The Impact of Targeted Interventions on the Writing Proficiency

Several instructional strategies and interventions have proven effective in improving

writing skills in preschool-aged children. These strategies and interventions include:

1. Pre-writing activities: Engaging children in activities that develop their fine

motor skills and hand-eye coordination, such as drawing, coloring, cutting, and

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 tracing, lays the foundation for writing. These activities help children develop the

necessary motor control and hand strength required for writing.

2. Letter formation practice: Providing opportunities for children to practice

forming letters using various mediums, such as pencils, markers, play dough, or

sand, helps them develop letter recognition and motor skills. Guided practice with

proper letter formation techniques supports the development of accurate and

legible writing.

3. Shared writing: Collaborative writing experiences, where the teacher and

students write together, can be highly effective. This approach allows children to

actively participate in the writing process, contributing ideas, practicing letter

formation, and learning from guided support. Shared writing promotes language

development, letter-sound correspondence, and an understanding of writing

conventions.

4. Phonics instruction: Introducing phonics instruction alongside writing activities

helps children make connections between letters and sounds. Teaching lettersound

relationships and basic phonetic patterns strengthens their ability to write and

decode words, fostering both reading and writing skills.

5. Scaffolded writing tasks: Breaking down writing tasks into manageable steps,

providing visual cues, and offering support as needed helps children develop

writing skills incrementally. Scaffolded tasks can include sentence frames, graphic

organizers, or word banks to support vocabulary and sentence structure.

6. Storytelling and narrative development: Encouraging children to engage in

storytelling and narrative activities promotes language skills and stimulates their

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 imagination. Storytelling can be supported through visual aids, props, or story

starters. As children learn to structure narratives, they develop skills in organizing

ideas and expressing them in written form.

7. Independent writing time: Allocating dedicated time for independent writing

allows children to practice their skills and build confidence. Providing a range of

writing materials, such as journals, notepads, and writing tools, encourages

children to explore writing in their own unique ways.

8. Authentic writing opportunities: Creating meaningful writing experiences by

connecting writing tasks to real-life contexts enhances motivation and purpose.

For example, writing letters to family members, making shopping lists, or creating

signs for classroom displays provide authentic purposes for writing and increase

children's engagement.

9. Feedback and revision: Offering constructive feedback on children's writing and

encouraging them to revise and improve their work promotes growth in writing

skills. Providing specific praise for strengths and guiding them on areas for

improvement helps children refine their writing abilities.

By implementing these instructional strategies and interventions, educators and parents

can create a supportive and enriching environment that nurtures preschoolers' writing skills,

allowing them to develop confidence and proficiency in written communication.

The Role of Educators and Parents Implementing Practical Strategies to Enhance

Writing Skills

Educators and parents play a crucial role in enhancing writing skills in the preschool

setting. Here are practical strategies they can implement:

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1. Create a print-rich environment: Surround the preschool setting with print

materials, such as labels, signs, charts, and books. Make writing materials easily

accessible, including writing tools, paper, and journals. This encourages children

to engage with writing in their environment and promotes their exposure to print.

2. Encourage storytelling and oral language development: Provide opportunities

for children to engage in storytelling and conversations. Encourage them to share

their experiences, ask questions, and express their ideas orally. Strong oral

language skills serve as a foundation for writing and support the development of

vocabulary and sentence structure.

3. Incorporate play-based writing activities: Integrate writing into play activities

to make it enjoyable and meaningful for children. Set up writing centers or

writing stations with materials for writing letters, making lists, creating cards, or

writing in journals. Encourage children to write in different play scenarios, such

as writing menus in a pretend restaurant or labeling objects in a pretend store.

4. Model and demonstrate writing: Demonstrate the writing process by modeling

how to form letters, write words, and construct sentences. Think aloud while

writing to show children how to organize ideas and use language effectively.

Encourage children to observe and imitate these writing behaviors.

5. Provide guided practice and feedback: Offer guided practice opportunities

where children receive support and feedback as they engage in writing activities.

Provide prompts, sentence starters, or visual aids to scaffold their writing. Offer

specific praise for their efforts and provide constructive feedback to help them

improve their writing skills.

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 6. Integrate writing across subjects: Connect writing to other subjects and

activities to emphasize its relevance. Encourage children to write about their

observations, experiments, or field trips. Integrate writing into art projects,

science journals, or nature walks. This helps children see writing as a tool for

communication and expression across different domains.

7. Individualized instruction: Recognize that children have different

developmental levels and needs. Provide individualized instruction and support

based on their abilities. Offer targeted interventions for specific areas of need,

such as letter formation or vocabulary development. Differentiate instruction to

meet the diverse needs of children in the preschool setting.

8. Encourage independent writing: Set aside time for independent writing where

children can freely practice their writing skills. Provide a variety of writing

materials and encourage them to write about their interests, experiences, or

imaginative stories. Support their independence while offering assistance when

needed.

9. Foster a positive and supportive environment: Create a nurturing and positive

atmosphere where children feel encouraged and supported in their writing

endeavors. Celebrate their progress and achievements, no matter how small.

Emphasize the process of writing rather than focusing solely on the final product.

By implementing these practical strategies, educators and parents can create an engaging

and supportive environment that fosters the development of writing skills in preschool children.

Collaboration between educators and parents is crucial to reinforce learning experiences and

provide consistent support for children's writing development.

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CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the development of writing skills in preschool-aged children is a critical

area of focus for educators and parents. Enhancing writing skills at this early stage lays the

foundation for future literacy development and academic success. Through targeted interventions

and practical strategies, educators and parents can create a supportive environment that promotes

writing proficiency in preschoolers.

By understanding the key factors that influence writing development, such as language

skills, fine motor skills, a literacy-rich environment, socio-emotional factors, instructional

support, and individual differences, educators and parents can tailor their approaches to meet the

specific needs of each child. Drawing on theories and models of early writing development, such

as socio-cultural theory, emergent literacy theory, cognitive development perspective, and stage

models, informs instructional practices and guides effective interventions.

Implementing practical strategies such as play-based approaches, explicit instruction,

integrated learning experiences, fine motor activities, individualized support, modeling, and

authentic writing opportunities, maximizes children's engagement and motivation. Additionally,

providing feedback, fostering confidence, and promoting independent writing empower children

to take ownership of their learning and continually improve their writing skills.

The impact of targeted interventions on the writing proficiency of preschool children is

evident. These interventions facilitate skill development, provide individualized support, increase

engagement and motivation, build confidence, promote the transfer of skills, and have long-term

benefits for future literacy development.

As educators and parents work collaboratively, creating a print-rich environment,

encouraging storytelling and oral language development, modeling writing behaviors, integrating

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writing across subjects, and fostering a positive and supportive atmosphere, they enhance the

preschoolers' writing skills. By implementing these practical strategies, educators and parents can

make a significant difference in the writing abilities of preschool-aged children, setting them on a

path toward effective written communication and academic success.

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