Inside Out: chapter 4 Getting It Down

Inside Out Strategies for Teaching Writing

Chapter 4: Getting It Down

This chapter on Getting It Down deals with the immature writer. The strategies here show us how to start with these students. Often, they are overly concerned with getting everything correctly written from the start. I appreciate this chapter, as it is all about just getting the thoughts on the paper, feeling confident, and building fluency. Another necessary skill immature writers need to develop is their voice. Voice is what gives a piece an identity, character, and expression.

Freewriting starts with writing. Even if a student says they have nothing to write, have them write just that over and over until they are able to think of something to say. Give them a time where they must keep the pen moving on the paper whether it be a freewrite or a journal entry, keep a sacred freewrite time every week to build stamina and fluency.

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Movie Sound Tracks are readily available to use as inspiration for students to write imaginary script to match the sound track or to use as a stimulus for a freewrite exercise.

Memory Writing is a way for students to focus on their own experiences in writing a narrative. It is essential that students adhere to particular restrictions. They must try to capture the essence of the experience remembering details and feelings, rather than concerning themselves with grammatical issues.

Then and Now is similar to memory writing, but with this activity they are comparing a person or place they perceived back 'then' and 'now' being certain to point out any differences in their perceptions.

Here and Now is an exercise in writing about a particular event that had a sudden change (e.g. from quiet and boring to exciting) and thereby stimulated a range of feelings. Students would record the date and time then write 4 words to describe their feelings here and now. Next, they need to reflect and expand on one or more of those ideas.

People photos are verbal snapshots intended to be quick and perceptive. Use a variety of people from all walks of life in a variety of situations. The goal is to be brief, accurate and precise.

Portraits are another way to hone in on observation and recording skills. Students will observe one fellow student without that student's knowledge. Each observer should focus on detailed characteristics that are interesting and unique to the subject being observed. Then students write a verbal picture of their subject without using his/her name. Finally, reading the description aloud to see if others can identify the mystery person.

Walking Compositions are an activity that requires students to use their senses and observational skills. Students are given specific directions and a time limit to take a walking tour around the campus. They may not speak to anyone, they need to focus on everything that is happening around them while on their tour and record their observations. Upon returning to class they share and discuss their individual perceptions. This activity easily leads into journal writing or short descriptive writing.

Listening to a Place is a variation on Walking Composition as this can be applied anywhere in the community. Again use all the sensory modes to learn as much as possible about a place including a cemetery as a target place.

The Name Piece is an activity in which students would write about their name(s). they will need to research all they can learn about their name. After their first draft is complete, they can share what they know about their name. This is appropriately done at the start of school.

The Life Map can be a culminating activity. The authors suggest large chart paper to map it out. Students can indicate varying degrees of peaks and valleys to shows the ups and downs in their life. Then students can share out their findings. The main point is help students gain comfort with expressing their feelings and thoughts and to be able to listen to and acknowledge everyone's ideas. So teachers, keep the environment positive and encouraging, also be willing to share your vulnerability as well.