CCR 651

January 24, 2000

Introductory writing

Before we begin our first class, I would like for all of us to write for 30 minutes on the following topic:

* How would you characterize writing? An art, a craft, a skill, something else? Why?

* How do you think undergraduates can improve their writing?

* What role can writing (composition) classes play in this improvement?

* How might we best characterize the role of the writing teacher? Mentor, tutor, coach, model, colleague, expert, lecturer, guardian of standards, gatekeeper, something else? Please explain how you interpret the terms that you choose.

* How are your answers to these questions reflected in your present or future teaching?