Most writing is meant to have an audience. With the exception of private journaling and “notes to self,” most of us write in order to communicate with others – whether it be to inform, persuade, or move our reader. Schooled writing, however, is often only read by the teacher. Students see no value in many of the writing assignments they submit, and for good reason – many of them do not have an authentic purpose.
I’m realizing, though, that it can be difficult to find “authentic” opportunities for students to write in the absence of school publications. Most high schools offer opportunities for students to publish in the school newspaper or yearbook, but they must be enrolled in an elective course to do so; English classes do not contribute to these publications.
Over the past several weeks as I’ve been teaching seventh grade in my middle school placement for student teaching, I’ve seen how valuable it is for students to share their writing in some way – either by reading aloud to the class, or posting it where others can see. I’ve been brainstorming other possibilities for “publishing” student work, and somehow incorporating the standard English curriculum (which often focuses on expository essays) into school publication opportunities. Ideas, anyone?
- Rachel Bowers
0 Responses to “Middle school publishing houses?”