Tuesday, February 6, 2007
Writing Revision
Writing assignments always seem to be subject to revision. Even when completed, the writer often second guesses their message. I'm not sure a writing assignment is ever complete. I think time just runs out. I know in my own writing it often looks different after a nights sleep. Sometimes I discard what I have written and start over. I guess it's the mental state you are in at the time you completed your writing. That can certainly change overnight. A good night's sleep can change your attitude about a lot of things, writing included. A fresh look at a writing assignment can change your perspective in a hurry. I guess that's the idea of revision; an opportunity to rewrite without guilt. When I revise, I try to be concise and clear and think like a reader. It doesn't always work out, but the effort is there
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Hi John,
I have enjoyed, both here and on the forum, readings about the experiences you've had and the way you reflect upon them. Sometimes the readings from class help illuminate them further (as with the Amazon experience) and sometimes you go beyond the readings and into your own classroom. When I read your thoughts about teaching adult learners, I instantly leapt to Temple Grandin. She talks about how animals and autistics both need the kind of "concreteness" you describe that adult basic writers seem to require. They are not as ingrained in conceptual thinking as many of us who are deeper into conventional education are. And Grandin makes the case for respecting this alternative way of relating to the world. I wonder if you can find ways to address the concrete visual thinking of adult learners and add to their repertoire rather than try to do away with it? Sounds like that's where you're headed.
I'm enjoying hearing from you in ways that class tends to constrain against!
Mary Ann
P.S.
You'll want to make sure that you post at least 500 words per week on the blog.
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