Over the last few years, our essay unit has become more and more structured, featuring step-by-step graphic organizers that we do as a class for every phase of the process. The formula is practical, but there is very little room for creative expression. Most kids go through the paces, some more compliantly than others. As a matter of course, we get the writing we expect, dull and predictable, which is also the writing we deserve.
I do have to hand it to those few writers who find a way to make these practice essays their own-- requesting to argue that Goldilocks was well within her rights and that the third little pig is overly controlling. Their writing is like a wild stallion that bucks at the bridle, and although their arguments are not always as neat and tidy as the box-and-bullet structure demands, I have no doubt at the end of the unit that they are the gifted among us.
I do have to hand it to those few writers who find a way to make these practice essays their own-- requesting to argue that Goldilocks was well within her rights and that the third little pig is overly controlling. Their writing is like a wild stallion that bucks at the bridle, and although their arguments are not always as neat and tidy as the box-and-bullet structure demands, I have no doubt at the end of the unit that they are the gifted among us.
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