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Escapade through Egypt

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Bernadette Simpson’s

Author Advice

Brainstorming: You might start by making a list of words that describe or remind you of your topic. If you can, include nouns, verbs, and adjectives. You may want to make a separate list for each letter you plan to use, depending on what you want to write. If you are trying to write alliterations, remember to try to think of as many words as you can that begin with the same sound.

 

If you are writing about Egypt and need some help collecting words, have a look at my list of Egypt-related words.  

 

Reading/Researching: Reading more about your topic will help you collect ideas and interesting words about your topic. Search the school or public library for any books about your topic. The Internet is also a useful resource.  

 

Interviewing/Discussing: Do you know someone who knows a lot about your topic? Maybe a grandparent who has visited the city you are writing about, or a neighbor or uncle who coaches the sport you chose. Interview them and see what interesting information they may share with you. You can also talk to your friends, family, or classmates about your topic. They may have some help or knowledge to offer even if they aren’t “experts”.

 

Observing/Experiencing: If you can, visit the place you are writing about and simply observe what is happening. Take notes about your observations and experience. Remember to include as many details as possible about what you see, hear, and smell - and even taste and touch! If you are writing about sports or art, watch a game or visit an art gallery.

 

Watch a Movie or Documentary: And if you can’t visit the place - or your topic is not a place to visit - consider watching a movie or documentary film about your topic. Or watch a sports competition or musical performance on television. Search your school or public library for any videos or other media they may have about your topic. Also, many videos are available from the Internet. If you are writing about a country, a habitat, or an animal, be sure to check National Geographic’s online videos.

 

 

Writing will be easier if you take some time to gather some ideas and information about your topic before you begin. Writers have to have something to write about, but it can sometimes be challenging to come up with ideas. Below are some activities that writers use to help them.

 

Check out this Alphabet Organizer from ReadWriteThink - an online interactive tool to help you organize and record your notes.

Choose a Topic.
Gather Ideas.
Draft.
Revise and Edit.
Publish and Share.

Gather Ideas