Inspiration begins!!

First: some college news. I've got the results from Baird University. Drum roll please .....

Some talk about essays: Michael Chabon & Amby Burfoot. Pretty solid stuff.

Weekly Post #7: Patterns

You have been reading your writer/essay/column for quite some time. You should know the writer's tendencies and voice quite well. What patterns have emerged? Does your writer love the colon? Secretly or not-so-secretly over-use the simple sentence? Think about what stands out most, what pattern is present only to the seasoned professional reader like you. Share, comment, keep up the great work! I know we looked at sentence patterns before, so try to move beyond that idea.

Maybe even, if you dare, comment on what patterns emerge in your own work. Personally, I can overuse the dash. I also love the long sentence linked to a short, crisp sentence via the semi-colon. Classic Collie. Lastly, I love the list with items separated by ands: she is thoughtful and kind and loving. How about you?

Keep up the good work. It's nice to read that the majority of you enjoy reading your selected writer.

Weekly Post #6: lay on the dislike

At the request of Monica G, I'm opening up this week's comments to things you dislike about your writer. If could be the persistent use of dashes. Maybe she starts every sentence off with the same clause (gasp!). Maybe he closes every piece with the same trite saying. Whatever it is, I'm sure there's something you've come to dislike about your write. Of course, if this isn't the case, share something you'd like to see the writer improve.

Keep up the excellent work.

Post #5: The opening line

We've looked at crafty words, high powered sentences, engaging the reader (or not); now let's focus on opening lines. Post the opening line to your selection and comment on its success or failure.

Is it weird that I LOVE reading these posts. I hope you are enjoying what you're reading as much as I am enjoying what you write.

Keep up the good work!

Day 15: The (dreaded) College Essay

Let's read! This is possibly my all-time favorite piece about college essays. It's funny. It's direct. It's where our discussion shall begin.

For your assignment: The essay & the rubric

How our class time will work
You have an essay to write for our fabulously fun contest. We will use class time to write (Fri, Wed & Fri). During those classes you can work on the essay for this class and other college essays you have. I am happy to read, comment on, give feedback on any type of college essay/supplement you have.

Post #4: Let's get Involved!

Excellent posts last week. Great job commenting on your writer.

This week try to focus on how the writer involves the reader. Good narrative pieces (this is not to say all of your readings are narrative pieces) engage the reader on some level. How do your writers do it?