Three things I’ve learnt from or with my students this past week

It’s more useful that the first draft exists and isn’t very good, than that it doesn’t exist.

2. If reading a Shakespeare play such as Henry V with a plot a student isn’t familiar with, for example the history plays, helping them understand which parts of the story contribute to the central plot, and which elements are more side plots, social commentary and character building, can help and stop engaging with the work from feel so overwhelming. 

3. If working on a visual project such as a poster with a younger student, putting all the various elements they might need (including images, quotes and extra information) in one document during a class can be helpful.  Then the act of putting it on the poster, and transferring it to be visually interesting can be done separately. This way there is space for the research and investigation, and for the creative and design element of the project. 

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Two quotes about writing

“The difference between the almost right word and the right word is really a large matter. ’tis the difference between the lightning bug and the lightning.”

― Mark Twain

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“Write what should not be forgotten.”

― Isabel Allende

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One suggestion to consider

For fun, try writing a creative story in the style of the book you’re reading at the moment.

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Happy writing,

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Jaye Sergeant

Founder & Lead Tutor of Turtle and elephant

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