Is Less Really More in Teaching Kids How to Write?
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In this New York Times article, Shannon Doyne and Holly Epstein Ojalvo present a writing lesson inspired by the writing we do in social media.
I think this is really interesting. I like the discussion that follows the activity and I think that it would be beneficial and thought-provoking for the students. To me, the six-word story activity they use is more like poetry in that there is a lot left for the reader to interpret or infer. I also think that writing like this would be very challenging and would lead nicely into a discussion of word choice and using vivid language.
Do I think that we should start promoting concise writing and lack of detail because Twitter has a 140-character limit? No. Writing for social media should not change the way we teach kids to write.
Should we be teaching the five-paragraph essay? No.
Should we be letting kids experiment with lots of different kinds of writing, including things like this article suggests? Yes.
What do you think?
Jackie Jacobs is a materials developer at Developmental Studies Center
The DSC Way creates a culture of learning where students are motivated to do the thinking and talking that builds community, literacy skills, personal relationships, and personal responsibility while engaging teachers in reflective professional development. The seven core principles of the DSC Way are integrated within each of its program, professional, and product development activities.
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