Write to Read

Introduction: I have loved teaching writing and composition through the last 30 years, as an Artist in Residence and as an instructor at Jefferson Community and Technical College. I am a practicing writer, looking for students that will address their writing and reading assignments with independent thought. This approach may seem elitist, but in my experience, anyone can express herself or himself with writing, and the best place to start is where you are. Also, being able to read successfully means being able to relate to the text. This becomes the medium for writing. I have no limits to the abilities of students that I respect and work with, because the joy and growth are mutual. As errors come up, we can train your student to understand the basic principles that are needed for comprehension. For instance, there is a technical error in the last sentence I wrote in the first paragraph, which is accepted by most writers today--ending a clause with a preposition. This old adage adds a formality to writing that is often awkward to the contemporary reader: I could have said "There are no limits to the students with whom I will work," but there are limited situations where this is preferable. The human mind is quick and multifaceted; creativity is enhanced by paying attention to what writers actually think, on the way to making a choice or an evaluation. My job is to help the student slow down and recognize that brain 'traveling' through awareness is exciting and successful. I have taught in schools in nearby counties, and I would prefer to work close to home, but I would be willing to travel almost as much, but not every day. For anyone who lives outside my 'comfort zone,' I'd also be willing to work through the internet part of the time. For students who want to improve their reading and writing, there need to be free moments to explore and enjoy the work, but there are usually examples within their writing that can serve to instruct, without compromising their authenticity. Therefore, not every mistake will be brought to attention, but habits of self-editing are strengthened.