Submission Type
Event
Expected Graduation Date
2012
Location
Lower Level, Ames Library, Illinois Wesleyan University
Start Date
4-14-2012 9:00 AM
End Date
4-14-2012 10:00 AM
Abstract
High school English class content in the United States is most often geared toward responding to literary texts and passing standardized tests, and because of this lack of variety and purpose in the curriculum, students are not motivated to write (Daisey, 2009). I analyzed teacher-action research studies to find ways of effectively incorporating creative and practical writing in the classroom to increase motivation and self-efficacy in students. If educators rethink the English curriculum to be more writing-centric, students will become better writers and communicators by practicing a wider variety of writing styles. Additionally, giving students freedom of choice in their assignments and providing assignments that have future relevance can help students find enjoyment in writing. Incorporating assignments that foster autonomy and individual voice is crucial to the development of our nation’s writers (Cox, 2009).
Motivating High School English Students Through Practical and Creative Writing Assignments
Lower Level, Ames Library, Illinois Wesleyan University
High school English class content in the United States is most often geared toward responding to literary texts and passing standardized tests, and because of this lack of variety and purpose in the curriculum, students are not motivated to write (Daisey, 2009). I analyzed teacher-action research studies to find ways of effectively incorporating creative and practical writing in the classroom to increase motivation and self-efficacy in students. If educators rethink the English curriculum to be more writing-centric, students will become better writers and communicators by practicing a wider variety of writing styles. Additionally, giving students freedom of choice in their assignments and providing assignments that have future relevance can help students find enjoyment in writing. Incorporating assignments that foster autonomy and individual voice is crucial to the development of our nation’s writers (Cox, 2009).