Too often kids just read and take notes. Their notes jump from one topic to another, and organizing the information into ordered paragraphs is next to impossible. Get several large index cards, and write each question at the top of its own card. You have just organized your child's note taking - and the paragraph structure for the first draft. Find age-appropriate material.
Kids love to find information on the Internet and encyclopedia disks.
Yet, this information can be too difficult for them to read and retell in their own words. Find reference material that is easy for your child to read. Books written for slightly younger children will present facts in a way that your child can easily retell. Encyclopedia disks for younger children, like the Golden Book Encyclopedia, are great. The multimedia World Book is also kid-friendly.