Describes a method of helping students to invent characters in the context of a creative writing workshop for undergraduates. Considers how students draw composition characters for which they can write a profile using the surrealist technique of "exquisite corpses." Uses student work to illustrate how such characters feed into the story…

Good writing is good sentences. It is a simple truth that many in the business of teaching writing have strayed from. Good writing is a first sentence that makes a reader want to read the second sentence, a second sentence that makes a reader want to read the third, and so on. Erika Lindemann suggests that certain types of sentence instruction can…

This manual is intended for instructors who wish to help students improve their writing skills. Part 1 of the manual which is divided into three sections details reasons why students have problems with writing, and includes examples of some faulty constructions. The final section includes: (1) a summary of strategies for improving student writing;…

It is difficult to teach a writing course that attempts to accomplish what great poetry accomplishes: the transformation of reality through language. The application of the principles of critical literacy, as outlined by Paulo Freire, may provide some assistance. In this course learners are asked to address problems in their environment and…

Reviews a computer software program entitled "Sensible Grammar." Explains that the function of the program is to check word processor files for punctuation errors and faulty phrases. Concludes that although the program has some problems it is a valuable asset. (BSR)

Offers heresies about reading, grading, and commenting on student papers which may relieve teachers from constant paper grading. Recommends using peer audiences, deemphasizing grading, expanding and elaborating the stages of the composing process, and modeling effective writing behaviors for students. (RAE)

Argues that it is time to return figurative language to the classroom. Claims teachers should teach writers more figures, regardless of the approach to composition instruction. (MS)

Argues that sociology, as a discipline, has much to offer and much to gain from participation in the writing-across-the-curriculum (WAC) movement. Suggests a modified version of WAC principles which minimizes the amount of grading required and allows students to discover the sociological perspective as they apply writing to their course…

Describes a freshman composition assignment in which students create fictional figures and approach a final biography about the figure through a series of shorter essays. (HTH)

Presents guidelines given to students to help make peer group discussions of writing more effective. (HTH)

Describes the successful use of a list of transitions in a reporting and an article writing class. Includes the list. (HTH)

Examines the effects on writing of involving students in using strategies of defining as inquiry, versus the effects of their analyzing and initiating model definitions. (HOD)

Offers suggestions for reinforcing the teaching of writing as process by approaching the evaluation of writing as process. (FL)

Finds that creating a goals and objectives statement not only works to legitimize curricular positioning of the writing center in the academy but also addresses important political, theoretical, and rhetorical questions pertaining to the top priority--helping students become better writers. Shares experiences as writing center administrator at the…

Strategies for strengthening the writing skills of accounting students include the following: beginning with critical thinking as a prerequisite to effective writing; teaching the elements of composing and editing; and using "microthemes" assignments. (SK)