Learning the proper rules of grammar and punctuation is generally seen as one of the more tedious lessons a child has to go through in English classes. However, getting everything down pat is crucial if your child wants to pass their exams, and they’ll also need to be able to continue following the proper rules as they go through life.
Here are just a few handy tips to keep in mind.
Use Interactive Games
Interactive games might once have been things best left to younger students, but a vast range are now available to cater to the needs of higher key stage levels. While most English work is essay-based, grammar and punctuation questions generally look for concrete answers, so interactive games can provide quick and entertaining ways to test and build your child’s knowledge.
Learn Yourself
Let’s face it: most adults are just as unable to tell the difference between a colon and a semi-colon or a prefix and a suffix as their children. It can be tempting to try learning everything ahead of time if you want to lend your kids a helping hand, but you’ll actually by sacrificing a great learning opportunity. When you learn with your child, you’ll be able to quiz each other and help each other out. This can also be a nice experience for your child since it means that you won’t have the upper hand while you’re working with each other.
Turn on Subtitles
Sometimes the best way to get the hang of grammar and punctuation isn’t through books or learning materials. In fact, you can help your child out simply by turning on the subtitles while they are watching TV, DVDs, or streamed videos. As long as those subtitles have been professionally created, as they usually will be, the grammar and punctuation should be perfect. Your child will be able to take in how the rules work in real life, all while relaxing to their favourite shows and movies.
Make it Visual
Finally, make sure you change things up a little by incorporating more visual tests. For example, you can cut out punctuation marks and words, then have your child put them together to form proper sentences. Remember, not all children learn well from copying down rules or following written explanations.
