Creative Writing, Creative Spelling

I decided to publish a sample of Archie's writing. This is something he wrote yesterday for creative writing. If you asked him, he'd say he hates writing most of all. It's weird how he bucks me so much on beginning a writing project, but after he forms an idea, he seems to really enjoy seeing how his story unfolds. Writing this took him about an hour and a half, but much of the time was spent getting a snack, complaining, sharpening his pencil, making chocolate milk, complaining some more, drinking said chocolate milk, etc. You get the picture.

Unfortunately (I suppose) for him, I place much importance on writing and spelling. As some of my friends know I've been at my rope's end about his spelling. We are currently using Explode the Code series and finished Book 3. However, Archie seems to have retained very little from it.
I can't tell you how frustrating it is to go over something that I feel is rather important just to have it go in one ear and out the other.

While there is much misspelling in this story, I am rather reluctant to be strict on the spelling and grammar at this age and stage when the whole idea of this project is to be CREATIVE. If he suspects that he is going to be judged on spelling, he'll use simpler words, short sentences and take whatever shortcuts he can. Which is NOT the point of creative writing. After sending a plea for help to numerous resources, I believe I am going to do what I can with the next Explode the Code series by going through it much more slowly.

The general consensus was that since he reads ALL THE TIME (and well above the second grade reading level), he'll eventually 'see' the word as not looking quite right. Also, some of it will correct itself as he gets older. Perhaps spelling errors will embarrass him into making an effort to get it right the first time. Meanwhile, we'll keep on keeping on. He is very smart and does write a funny story. I'll translate below it in case there are things in there that don't quite register. You may have to click it to make it bigger. This was the best I could do with a blog scan.

-----

The Fastest Guinea Pig

Once upon a time, there was a family that had a guinea pig that was so fast. So fast he went 100 mph! Just like the FLASH!

It was at that moment when he was going to the bathroom he ran. He ran down the steps into the living room and by the time it came out he was in the back, back yard!

The end.

-----

What is it about boys? Their idea of a funny story always involves poop or other bodily function in some form or fashion. Well, I suppose poop is a pretty funny subject...hee hee!