Kevin L. Callahan

EngC1011 Writing Instructor

(612) 623-7685

In class:

The purpose of this class is to discuss the process of writing and to do a diagnostic paragraph and a focused freewriting exercise.

Agenda:

1. A reminder: I am available on an individual basis for anyone who would like to learn or needs a refresher on how to use a computer, use e-mail, find a website, or search the internet.
2. A short question and answer period about the Syllabus, first two assignments, and handouts.
3. Editing practice and Proofreading the syllabus.
4. A description of the folder that later assignments are to be handed in with.
5. 5 minute warm up writing exercise.

You will write a 3 sentence (minimum), handwritten and double spaced Diagnostic Paragraph for your instructor on the following topics.

"Where do you actually go to read and study?

If it is a different location or environment, where do you efficiently get written work done?"

"Define what the optimal environment for writing and studying is for you?"

Try to edit and proofread this and correct all spelling errors and mechanical errors.

6) We will collectively discuss the various steps involved with writing a typical research paper and list them on the board.

6. 15 minute freewriting exercise.
7. Discussion of the experience of freewriting.

Instructions for Focused Freewriting:

1. Think of a topic that is "autobiographical" in nature (a personal experience from your life that you would want to still remember 40 years from now). It should be an experience that you learned a lesson from i.e. there was a point to it. It can be either serious or entertaining in nature, but it should not be boring. This topic may eventually be discussed in public, so you probably do not want to pick the most embarrassing moment in your life, unless you are no longer embarrassed by it.
2. "Concentrate entirely on writing without stopping, even if you think you have nothing to say. Simply writing "I’m stuck, I’m stuck" will at least force you to begin writing." (Longman , 2000:23).
3. Do not lift your pen from the paper. Do not stop writing.
4. Do not worry about spelling, punctuation, or grammar just keep writing.
5. Do not be concerned about where your mind goes with it. Just keep writing.