Teaching Hints for Editing Usage and Mechanics

Editing the work of others is the major focus of the Language Arts Writing Test Part I. However, editing is also an important part of the process of writing an essay. When students first write down their ideas, they should be more concerned about the thoughts and words or vocabulary that they are using than about grammar and punctuation. Teach students to take a close look at grammar only after they have generated and revised a full draft.

What are some good techniques for teaching editing skills in the GED classroom?

• Identify and address students' individual error patterns.
• Teach grammar and punctuation through discussion and explanation, rather than drill.
• Use peer editing groups or pairs.
• Use handbooks in the classroom to look up common errors.
• Use read-aloud strategies.
• Read backwards.
• Use journals and logs.

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