Both my 7th graders have a relative weakness with language usage/mechanics. On the SAT, the ERW (evidence-based Reading and Writing) scores were significantly diluted by much lower Writing subscores. Furthermore, while the Writing subscores were comfortably above average compared to college bound seniors, the language usage/mechanics sections are almost but not quite "college ready".
Part of the problem has to do with the fact that our elementary and middle schools do not actively teach language mechanics anymore. The other issue may be that most writing at home and at school are done on the computer which has automatic spelling and grammar check. I also suspect that both kids may actually "know" more language usage/mechanics than testing shows but in a time crunch exhausting test situation, they may not have been able to apply what they know only superficially in an optimal manner. Their Writing subscores on two practice tests were substantially higher, more so than can be accounted for by the common practice to real test comparisons. It is likely that with just normal practice in writing over the years, their mastery will automatically improve. However, it can be beneficial to bring this specific area up closer to the level of their verbal and language skills.
Anyhow, they clearly have room to grow in the area of language usage/mechanics. What have you tried or what would you recommend?
Last edited by Quantum2003; 05/22/16 01:13 PM.
