By: Amy Rubens, Indiana University

Amy Rubens, Indiana University — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 18:29:34 +0000

When I teach composition or literature courses with a focus on academic writing, I definitely bring my writing life into the classroom. I do agree, though, that the focus should remain on the students — their work, their writing, their successes and challenges.

In addition to mentioning my writing struggles at key moments (such as during revision activities), I like to identify how I utilize specific critical thinking, writing, or research strategies in my own work. (E.g., When I refine transitions between paragraphs, I try to…) Usually, my comments are passing and brief; however, they’re weighty enough to let students know that anyone who writes–even the expert at the front of the room–continually hones his/her craft.

I think it’s important in composition courses to frame writing as an on-going process that doesn’t stop when the semester ends. Maybe one way we can accomplish this is to bring our writing lives into the classroom a little more, if only briefly.

Comments on: You Write, Too?

By: Amy Rubens, Indiana University