ERIC Number: ED239261
Record Type: RIE
Publication Date: 1983-Nov
Pages: 14
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Student Writing in the Foreground of a Literature Class.
Smith, Eugene
Student writing can be used in literature classes as a motivational and learning tool. Through careful planning, writing activities can (1) demonstrate that student ideas on literature will be considered seriously, (2) integrate students' literary opinions with those of the instructor and established critics, (3) improve student writing skills, (4) develop a class atmosphere of definite cooperation, and (5) establish criteria and procedures for evaluation of student work that relate to student performance. One plan for incorporating writing into literature classes includes dividing students into groups of six, with one student contributing a written response to a literary work each week. On a designated day, the small groups listen to the instructor for extensive comments. Certain essays may be used as large group discussion starters of literary works. In addition to increasing participation in group discussion, this method intensifies student engagement with literature. Final examinations in classes using this procedure tend to produce thoughtful, lively responses to literary works. (Questions for reader-based feedback and essay evaluation forms are appended.) (MM)
Descriptors: Class Activities, Classroom Environment, College English, Group Discussion, Higher Education, Integrated Activities, Literature Appreciation, Motivation Techniques, Peer Evaluation, Reader Response, Student Participation, Teaching Methods, Writing Evaluation, Writing Exercises, Writing Improvement
Publication Type: Speeches/Meeting Papers; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: N/A
Audience: Teachers; Practitioners
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Note: Paper presented at the Annual Meeting of the National Council of Teachers of English (73rd, Denver, CO, November 18-23, 1983).