THE PARENT'S ENGLISH LAB

Practical reading, writing, and learning strategies for middle and high school students—and the parents who support them.

What "Add More Details" Actually Means: A Tutor Explains

What "Add More Details" Actually Means: A Tutor Explains

What "Add More Details" Actually Means: A Tutor ExplainsVirginia Taylor
Published on: 27/07/2026

Wondering what teachers mean by "add more details"? Learn how stronger thinking—not longer paragraphs—helps students become better writers. Keywords

Writing Lab
The Best Writing Question I Know

The Best Writing Question I Know

The Best Writing Question I KnowVirginia Taylor
Published on: 15/07/2026

One simple question can help reluctant writers organize their thoughts and gain confidence before they ever begin writing.

Writing Lab
When Your Student Says, "I Don't Know What to Write"

When Your Student Says, "I Don't Know What to Write"

When Your Student Says, "I Don't Know What to Write"Virginia Taylor
Published on: 13/07/2026

Discover how asking the right questions helps reluctant writers find their ideas, organize their thoughts, and gain confidence before they begin writing.

Writing Lab
Before You Tell Them to Turn Off the Game, Try This Instead | Helping Reluctant Writers

Before You Tell Them to Turn Off the Game, Try This Instead | Helping Reluctant Writers

Before You Tell Them to Turn Off the Game, Try This Instead | Helping Reluctant WritersVirginia Taylor
Published on: 08/07/2026

Before you ask your student to turn off the game, try asking a few questions instead. You might discover they're already practicing many of the same thinking skills we teach in English class.

Reading LabLearning Lab