Thursday, January 6, 2011

Getting Back to Business

I know that you don't really want to see this email, especially if you check your inbox before the semester actually starts, but that's just the way it goes sometimes. Anyway, if you haven't already begun, it is about time to start thinking about your classes and what you're going to do this semester. But don't worry, I'll keep this one simple.

There are two problems that students often mention when we begin to discuss writing. The first is so simple that it is probably just an oversight by professors. The second can be a little more tricky, but is extremely important.

First of all, just give your students a format for anything they write. If your discipline uses APA, then have them format their writing assignments in APA. The same goes for MLA or any other style your students should use. Its good for them to know that different disciplines have different formatting styles, and it just might be a little easier on your eyes. We focus on MLA format in the English department, so you might even choose to use that as a default. Just make them format their papers please.

The second issue is that students are often at a loss as to where to begin an essay. This often starts with their topics, so just give them specific topics to write about. They are in your class for you to teach them, and that means you need to guide them. Some students need a gentle hand, others need more. Set the boundaries for the essay, including the topic and have them work within those boundaries. Allow them to create an alternative to your parameters if they don't like the assignment. Have those boundary-less students problem solve in a way that satisfies your requirements. Everyone else should be able to do the work you assign. Its alright to make them write about something they don't like because it forces them to consider something outside of their comfort zone. In the end, it will probably even make them better students.

As we begin to create our semester calendars and assignments remember that it is alright to give students formats and boundaries for their writing assignments. It might even make your job a little easier. Happy planning.

If you have any questions or comments about writing or Basic Skills please feel free to contact me anytime at mwickert@swccd.edu. I won't pretend to have all the answers, but together I am sure we can find a workable solution.

See you all next week.