Write Your Own: Mystery (18 page)

  Break the word into syllables and tackle each part at a time.

  Use a dictionary or a computer spell check. Don't avoid using a word because you cannot spell it. Try your best, and when you find out what the correct spelling is, make a note of it in your writing journal to remember for next time.

Punctuation checklist

  Make sure that each sentence makes sense and uses a verb (unless it is a one word sentence, such as ‘
OK?'
)

  Don't forget exclamation marks after exclamations, such as
Go
on!

  Remember to use question marks after questions, such as
Where did he go?

 Don't forget commas to separate the things in a list, such as a list of clues – apart from the final ‘and'. For example,
She picked up the pocket, the old coin, the strip of paper and the map.

  Use a comma to separate an adverb start, such as:
Carefully, she opened the envelope and peered inside.

  Use a comma to separate ‘ing' and ‘ed' starts, such as:
Wondering why the car had slowed down so much, Connor ducked down behind the hedge and waited.

  Use a comma to separate a subordinate clause at the start of a sentence, such as:
While Crabbit explained about the cat, Connor noticed that the table was set for three people, not two.

  Use a comma when you drop a phrase or clause into a sentence, such as:
Connor, slipping the envelope into his pocket, made his way towards the door.