Common Sense Media Review
By Lynne Glasner
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
One-stop site for writing help is a good resource for teens.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's It About?
The main section of the OWL website offers a broad range of solid information about writing -- the process, grammar, and style. There are no groups to join, fees to pay, or personal information to supply. The site isn't designed for interactive instruction. But if kids are looking for resources, the OWL won't disappoint; it's all easily accessible, free, and abundant -- and kids can print out the pages. Besides all the written documentation, there are also PowerPoint presentations that provide an overview of tools such as the MLA style guide.
Is It Any Good?
For the right teen, the PURDUE ONLINE WRITING LAB is a great resource for producing any kind of writing. For less mature or younger teens, there won't be much sticking power. There are no cute graphics or interactive opportunities. Independent learners are the real candidates for getting something from this site. But for this demographic, the site will keep them busy reviewing the process they undertake for writing projects and homework. It will also be something to bookmark as a good resource for pesky grammar questions or styling issues.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about other ways kids can express themselves besides writing. If kids have options for how they present their school assignment, they may want to explore different ways of creating with digital media.
Families can also talk about how to give and receive constructive criticism. How do you feel when someone critiques your writing? How can you provide feedback to peers without hurting their feelings?
Where are other places online where you can find homework help? How can you determine if a website has trustworthy information? What should you look for to determine a website's credibility?
Website Details
- Subjects : Language & Reading : forming arguments , presenting to others , storytelling , using supporting evidence , writing , writing clearly
- Skills : Self-Direction : academic development , motivation , Communication : conveying messages effectively , multiple forms of expression , presenting
- Genre : Educational
- Pricing structure : Free
- Last updated : November 11, 2020
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