Writing is Thinking

Starting with Little, Nearby Things: This type of notebook entry really spoke out to me.  I think because it is something that I can relate to and have experienced before.  It reminded me of our free-writes in class that stem off of one phrase or word from the text.  Something so small and simple can lead to so many different writing topics.  Meaningful writing does not always start meaningful, it can stem from something that we did not even expect.  This can be such a great way to have students write without any expectations. 

Writing from multiple perspectives: When reading this passage, I was reminded of our class discussion on reading being a mirror and a window.  Writing from multiple perspectives adds this aspect to writing.  Writing from multiple perspectives is something that I have not had much experience with but I think can make something that students may feel is boring into an interesting activity. 

Intentional strategies vs assignments: Having students write in a notebook that is their own is quite different than having students write a paper.  When writing in a journal or free-writing, I write my thoughts or feelings without thinking much about grammar or answering the question "right".  When students write a paper or answer to a question as an assignment, their writing is different too.  Teachers must be mindful when having students write.  I believe that both free-writing or journal writing and assignments have value in different ways.