Thursday, September 28, 2006

Bird by Bird: Writing a Setting

Here's where you can post your work in progress for comment and correction. Now that we've started, how might a character reveal him or her self through the details noticed? Read the snippet of Carol Shields' setting description carefully. If you dare, copy her rhythms and structures to come up with your own version. I did this in class one time and it worked quite well. What do you think?

"A brisk breeze entered from the windows, the fluorescent lights humming above the diligent, hard-working students. The room was spacious; it could only have been in an old Canadian high school, a place of wooden tables, plastic chairs, posters pinned to the walls, echoing voices of teachers." —written by Brad Hyde with ideas from the students.

Friday, September 22, 2006

Low Cost and Fun Writing Activity (Add Sunny Day)

Here's how:

Go to the nearest stationery store. Buy a small, spiral bound notebook with lined pages. Walk to and from the store if you can.

On the way back (or later), closely observe two locations. You might choose a place you like and another that you dislike. Take a good look. Slow down and notice things: maybe that fence needs painting. Or the 30 meter fir tree swaying in the wind. Whatever you see . . .

Write your impressions immediately into your notebook. If you have a digital camera, take a picture of the scene to aid your memory.

That's all. Oh, and do remember to walk in the sun this weekend.

Thursday, September 21, 2006

Making Writing 12 Even Better: Your Ideas?

Using the "Revision and Writing Processes" sheet I gave you at the end of class, I invite your comments on any of the bulleted points. I especially invite you to respond to the last bullet with any ideas for activities you'd like to do.

I've had an idea since class (walking over to get my dinner). Have a "Greek Technique of the Week." The Greeks were great at rhetoric (and gave everything a name). We could do a 15 minute "mini" session and practice to help us learn some very time tested styles!

Saturday, September 16, 2006

Comments Invited on Roger Angell, "Reflections: Old Country"

What do you think of Angell using an 81 word sentence followed by a 57 word sentence in his first paragraph?

Why might he do that? What is there to be gained?

Do you think it's effective?

What, in the sentences themselves, is the writer doing and what is being communicated? Pay particular attention to the longer one.

Note that he continues to use long sentences until the final paragraph. Then he doesn't. Why?

Answer any of the above in your comment. Or more than one if you wish.

Friday, September 15, 2006

Three Takes on September 11

Here's a link to the word file. I wrote each class along with you students.

Note that, though interesting, each one is imperfect. They are rambles, disconnected from a central focus.

Now, I have to find one for myself. I'd suggest you do as well.

Link opens a word document, "Sept11"