Kroll's Theory
English Language: AQA A Level, topic 2.4.2
Kroll's Theory: Stages 1 - 2
As with reading, there are certain ages and stages you need to know. Kroll (with development from Perera) developed a theory which is all about the skills a child uses to write:
Stage 1
- Stage 1: the preparatory stage – up to 6 years:
- Motor skills are acquired.
- Basic spelling system is in use.
Stage 2
- Stage 2: the consolidation stage – from 6 to 8 years:
- Written work reflects spoken language.
- Writing can be colloquial (or at least have many colloquialisms).
- Declarative mood dominates.
Stage 2 cont.
- Hypotaxis – use of conjunctions to join clauses.
- Child struggles to end sentences.
- Sentence form emerges, but often without punctuation.
Kroll's Theory: Stages 3 - 4
As with reading, there are certain ages and stages you need to know. Kroll (with development from Perera) – this theory is all about the skills a child uses to write:
Stage 3
- Stage 3: the differentiation stage – from 8 to mid-teens:
- The differences in mode become apparent to the child – work becomes less speech-like.
- An awareness of genre developments.
- Structure emerges.
Stage 3 cont.
- Grammar is more complex (and accurate).
- Sentences are also more complex.
- Punctuation is often more controlled – it is often accurate.
Stage 4
- Stage 4: the integration stage – mid-teens upwards:
- On the whole, writing is now becoming very accurate.
- Vocabulary is now expanded.
- Spelling is more accurate.
Stage 4 cont.
- An awareness of the audience and purpose of the writing can alter the way a piece is written.
- A personal written style is developed.
Test yourself on Kroll's Theory
How many stages does Kroll's theory have?
Kroll's Theory of Writing Development