Here are some thoughts gathered from my students on the world of blogging in the context of creative writing:
Pros
*able to see others' rough drafts
*good way to keep in touch out of school - bring creative writing class home
*allows us to read work from other classes - see what other students do with given assignments
*avenue for constructive feedback
*non-judgemental forum
*readers can see the structure of a work on the page (cannot happen if the piece is simply heard)
*gives quiet and/or shy students a different way to participate and be engaged in class
*blogs can be accessed from any computer with the Internet
*provides an opportunity for students to drive instruction (for example: On Tuesday, Gymnast5492 will post a writing prompt that everyone will use as a rough draft topic, etc.)
*involvement of creative writing alumni/Calliope members
*posting assignments online = saving paper = saving trees
*students can stay up-to-date with class assignments even if they are absent/on vacation/dismissed early/etc.
Cons
*no performance element
*computer problems can limit access
*some people aren't comfortable with technology
*less personal than a one-on-one critique
Implementation and Extension
*post a minimum of one blog entry (rough drafts, favorite poems, favorite poetic song lyrics, thoughts relevant to class) per week/post two comments on others' work per week
*if available, one lab day per week to explore blog sites
*"mentoring" between creative writing and cw workshop students?
*connection to fourth grade pen pals?
*connection to Friends of the Library (open mic facilitators) and other community outlets?
*your post(s) may inspire others - possibility of forming important connections via the written word
Next post topic: Help! I am trying to plan a workshop for high school writers and I need your ideas, expertise, and assistance! :)
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3 comments:
My Humanities class is infiltrating your creative writing blog. We are studying ethics and want to practice Random Acts of Kindness by leaving positive comments about student work. Happy Blogging from another English teacher.
To cmcorrow,
Thank you so much! My students and I really appreciate your efforts. Kudos to you for focusing on random acts of kindness in your classroom. This is such an important concept for students - and everyone else - to practice. Thanks again!
This is a very good, helpful site.
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