Workshop: An Introduction to Writing for Children and Young Adults
The range for this style is almost
indefinable. Any potential topic fits from all subjects and genres. Since
basically all articles and essays include information here the focus becomes
purpose and intent. We have all experienced the information overflow that
causes our minds to glaze over. So
to keep interest one focus key is the central purpose, which then connects the
tone and point of view. Will it be severe, dramatic, humorous, functional, or
enlightening?
The facts need to support the purpose in tone
as well. And again they need to be age appropriate. A toddler understands basic
warnings such as don't run or don’t touch or don’t move. Older readers will want to
know the why and what of the danger to confirm the warning words.
Interest is the precise lure, to be supported
by the presentation, and undergirded with facts. Even a wealth of facts is
possible if presented in an engaging manner. For younger readers a story
narrative can help guide new information. Older readers will want evidence as
well, but slanted specifically to the main interest or main reason they are
reading this particular article.
Don’t overload and don’t use terminology that
can’t become relative to the reader. Limit to the primary focus. Ground the
reader in the subject before expanding the concepts and vocabulary.
Say for example I wanted to do some article
on kites. Will I focus on (entertainment) the fun it is to watch others fly
them on the beach, (historical or geographical) where kite flying originated,
(science) wind currents, (occupations)
festivals for kites, and the list goes on.
In a few weeks we’ll look at outlines and
methods of focusing a potential essay or article but for right now begin to
sift out main components of information you want to base your subject on.
Action Steps:
1. From the category you chose last week take your four main points
and make a list of all the key foundations of information that are either the
most interesting or the most critical or both for each of them.
2. Keep a list of the parts that don’t fit right now.
3. Choose one particular aspect and do a brainstorm of everything
you already know. For example: what do you know about beaver homes?
4. Make a rough draft list of potential details.
5. Next to each mark whether you have an example or story or details
to share or do you need to do more research?
Share: What topic point have you chosen
to work on for an information article?
Read deep, marcy
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