What is Big Writing?Big Writing is based on the Ros Wilson

approach to writing.

Based on child friendly, interactive learning.

Uses fast, fun and lively activities.

A focus on the four core targets of Vocabulary, Connectives, Openers and Punctuation.

AimsTo have a positive ethos throughout the school so

that pupils develop confidence and pleasure in writing.

Teach writing through a structured programme with clear success criteria.

Teach writing to ensure progression and consistency.

Raise levels of attainment in writing.

The Four Elements of Big Writing• V Vocabulary

• C Connectives

• O Openers

• P Punctuation

VocabularyTo promote the use of “Wow” words in

writing.

“Wow” words are words which are ambitious for the children to use.

Task: Think of at least five words to describe an apple.

ConnectivesThese make sentences longer because they

join pieces of information together.

Make a sentence more interesting.

and but to

then because however

OpenersThere are different ways of opening

sentences.

Encourages children to use different words.

First Finally If

Later After Sometimes

PunctuationUsing different forms of punctuation makes

writing more interesting.

Big Writing – The MethodWarm up – VCOP activityShort activity – Highlighting VCOP in a passage

or editing a passage by adding punctuationPlan – Discuss the type of writing e.g. letter,

imaginative story, instructionsDiscuss Learning Intentions and Success

CriteriaE.g. L.I. To write a letter

S.C. Include an address Use full stops and capital letters Use three wow words

Big Writing – The Method• Model on the board• Talk about what vocabulary could be included

and write words on the board• Create a plan• Start writing• Stop after a few minutes to allow class to check if

there is more than one type of punctuation, some wow words etc

• Continue writing• Read out some examples to the class • Self or Peer assess

How can you help?• Read with your child. Talk about the wow

words in the story.• Discuss different connectives. What

connectives could you use instead of “and”?• Discuss different ways to start sentences.• Give your child some punctuation and ask

them to give you a sentence i.e. a sentence with a question mark.

• Encourage them to write letters, keep a diary, take notes and keep lists.

• Play word games e.g. crosswords, anagrams.