Monday, June 13, 2011

Chapter 1

There are so many things in this Writing Essentials Book to learn about. I look forward to reading more of it.
A couple big points that I found interesting from this chapter were:
  • The more complex something looks, the more likely it will cause frustration, exhaustion, and possibly anxiety
  • When preparing a process, make sure it is doable, managable, and enjoyable
  • Consider using whole-to-part-to-whole method
  • Practice, practice, practice
These points have always been around in my head, but I never paid too much attention to them. When I was in school I never really liked to write much, but I also didn't know why. Now it makes sense to me. The teachers seemed to make it more routine than "fun". Maybe we just have different ideas on what the word "fun" means? Either way, after reading the chapter I understand why some of my students give up when asked to write something.
I have always used the whole practice makes perfect philosophy, but in this case, is there really ever "perfect"?  Who is the judge of perfection when writing? The main point I learned from this chapter is to set goals that are obtainable!

2 comments:

  1. I'm glad you mentioned the whole-part-whole. I really want to remember that. I keep having "oh, yeah" moments when I read about things that I have learned before but that have fallen by the wayside in my brain.

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  2. Comments by Ashlay:
    You have made some valid and useful points from the reading. Less frustation and more practice defintely sums up chapter 1. I believe that practice makes perfect, but I want to find new interactive for students to practice writing and reading. I have heard different opinions on part-to-whole. What is your opionion?

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