A common challenge that teachers face when implementing creative writing into other content areas (not English/Language Arts) is student pushback. Some students (especially those who are not confident in their writing skills) will be reluctant, or even defiant when it comes to tackling creative writing assignments outside of English class. Explain two things you can do, as a teacher, to promote student buy-in and get them interested in writing in content area classes.
References
1. Clark, D. (2017, August 2). 6 strategies to motivate reluctant readers. ReadingHorizons. https://www.readinghorizons.com/blog/6-ways-to-motivate-reluctant-readers-to-read
- This blog provides strategies for working with students who don’t want to write.
2. Drapeau, P. (2014). Sparking student creativity: Practical ways to promote innovative thinking and problem-solving. Retrieved from eBook Central (accessed through LIRN). If you are having trouble accessing eBook Central resources, please review the instructions: Finding a chapter in eBook Central Academic.
- Read pages 59-142 which give strategies and methods for incorporating creative thinking and writing into your curriculum.
3. Fisher, R. & Williams, M. (2005). Unlocking creativity: A teacher’s guide to creativity across the curriculum. Retrieved from eBook Central (accessed through LIRN). If you are having trouble accessing eBook Central resources, please review the instructions: Finding a chapter in eBook Central Academic.
- Read chapter 3 (pages 37-54) which provides some theories, strategies, and methods for using creative writing in the classroom.
4. Graves, D. (n.d.). Creating a productive writing environment. Scholastic. https://www.scholastic.com/teachers/articles/teaching-content/creating-productive-writing-environment/
- This article provides some strategies for making your classroom creative writing-friendly; it is geared towards grades 1-8 but can easily be adapted to high school.
5. Henderson, J. (2008, December). Developing students’ creative skills for 21st century success. ASCD Education Update. http://www.ascd.org/publications/newsletters/education-update/dec08/vol50/num12/Developing-Students’-Creative-Skills-for-21st-Century-Success.aspx
- This article focuses on how creative thinking and creative writing can benefit modern students.
6. Morrissey, F.A. (n.d.). Write on!- Creative writing as language practice. University of Berne. http://www.teachingenglish.org.uk/article/write-creative-writing-language-practice
- This document outlines and discusses some benefits of creative writing.
