Maria’s first draft

Writing in a word processing programme allows the text to develop through constant reading and rewriting because it is easy to make changes to the content and appearance of the text.

The Save function allows each draft of the text to be stored, so that the whole process is visible.

In Maria’s first draft, she has paid attention to layout, font, size of script, and use of dramatic effects like inserting the title after the beginning of the text, with dramatic use of size and colour.

Her text starts like this:

Dear Mum!

I was thinking a lot yesterday, and mostly it was about you. I assume you are a bit confused right now and wondering about why you have received this letter… Am I right? Well, it isn’t that complicated. If I were going to write a novel or a book about you, the title of it would be:

A story of

My mother

…and why I appreciate her so much

You see mum, I know I’m not that kind of person who shower people with sentences on how much I appreciate and love them. Maybe I tell my friends once in a while, but I think my feelings towards people often reflect through my actions, behaviour and eyes. This letter is my way of letting you know that I really appreciate you, since I’m not too good in letting you know by saying it. And I really should tell you more often, especially now when I’m not living at home any longer and you can’t read my eyes.

...........

Here is the end of Maria’s first draft:

I have my best days now as a student, living for my own several miles from home. I know you are happy, both for Catherine and I, and that is a good feeling. The best thing however, is to come home once and a while, home to dad and you. It’s nice to be the “child” again and cuddled with. I think I’ll forever appreciate to be your daughter, your little girl. It’s a good feeling! I hope I’ll have the same strength and heart as you, and I promise to be there for you whenever you need me – like you are for me.

….I love you, mum!

Language/learning goals

Maria specifies her goals as

•Has/have concord (especially when I talk about people)

•This/these