Yesterday was my work anniversary! One year ago, I accepted a position as an instructional designer at Daemen College. I’ve been designing a sociolinguistics course that I’ll be teaching remotely soon as well, and I get to teach advanced composition again!
If you would have told me one year ago that my life would look anything like it does today, I wouldn’t have believed you.
And I’m profoundly grateful for where I am right now.
I’m learning far more than I ever imagined in the company of some of the kindest and most talented teachers and team-mates I’ve ever had. And I still get to write and consult and work with young writers, too. More on all of that soon–because I have some big news– but for now, there’s this:
I made something for all of you called the Make Writing Starter Set.
Time was one of the unexpected gifts of this strange and difficult year, and I’ve used it to design a few things that people have been asking for, including this toolkit that provides a simple start for those of you who are interested in learning more about what this is and how to begin.
Here’s what you’ll find inside:
- A clear description of what I mean when I speak of this make writing thing.
- A peek at the materials you’ll want to have on hand and how to gather them without spending money.
- A procedure that will help you teach a simple lesson that inspires writers of all ages to make writing.
- Dozens of make writing firestarters–prompts–that might inspire you and your students.
- Research-based approaches that serve makers well as they transition to the production of written words (when and if they need or want to).
I’ve packed a ton of my own photos onto these pages, and I’ve also begun sharing quick explainer videos and demos on Instagram, in the Building Better Writers Facebook group, and in my newsletter, too. If you aren’t connected with me in these places, I’d love to see you there.
Here’s a quick walk-through:
You can grab your own copy here.
I’ll be designing and sharing products like this each week for as long as I can manage it, too. When you subscribe, you’ll have access to everything that I make at no cost. I will be sure to drop new items into my Sunday newsletters, and I won’t hit your inbox otherwise.
Need some help planning a lesson or a unit or your next year? Planning Camp provides three different ways to get it. Join now, and go at your own pace. You’ll have access for the lifetime of the course. I’ve kept the price incredibly low to encourage high participation. I’m offering weekly office hours, too.
Happy Teacher Appreciation week, all. I’m doing my best to “pivot” along with all of you this year, and I hope it’s useful to you. That word is the worst. I know. Forgive me.
I’m grateful to Betsy Potash for inspiring and helping me out through this transitional season. She’s sharing a bunch of beautiful new ideas about writing makerspaces on her blog, too. Go see.
