Thursday, 4 October, 2012

The opening writing prompt for class was, "The relationship was dying...."

Most of class was dedicated to reading and analyzing the story "In the South". Students received a graphic organizer to help each of them organize their analysis of the story in terms of the symbols and metaphors for death, decay, and dissolution.

This analysis will be continued on Monday.

Tuesday, 2 October, 2012

Class began with the following two quotes as prompts:

"It's not the tool; it's the craftsman."

"Sin has many tools, but a lie is the handle that fits them all." -- Oliver Wendell Holmes

Mr. Zartler checked that students had brought at least two different writing instruments.
A new due date was given; a rough draft of the morbid fiction is due on Tuesday, 16 October.

Students received a handout on the Seven Deadly Sins & Seven Cardinal Virtues; these powerful motivators were discussed int he context of conflict in story stories (and in life).

Mr. Zartler taught a lesson in the creation of metaphors; writers created metaphors for the sins and virtues.

Writers experimented with writing tools.

Monday, 1 October 2012

In class today writers began with the prompt:
"What I've learned about writing so far is....."

After sharing, the class discussed what makes a good project. Clarity, creativity, and care are a lovely alliteration of the qualities that seemed most important.

Writers were then given the due date for their Writing Down the Bones project. The project is due on Thursday, 11 October. That means that conference period this week and next week are the best times to get some help. There were a variety of in class activities to help writers figure out the best ideas for their project including ....

The homework assignment was graded, and used to help prepare writers for their projects. Students who did not have the homework must write a summary of two chapters of Writing Down the Bones  as an alternative assignment.

HOMEWORK: For tomorrow bring in at least two different writing implements.