Entry 10: The reading writing connection
As I read, the passage highlights the correlation between good readers and good writers, emphasizing how astute readers tend to develop strong writing skills. It discusses how attentive readers observe and analyze effective writing techniques to refine their own ideas and understand organizational structures, developmental aspects, and stylistic choices. Drawing parallels to various professions where practitioners learn from their peers, such as singers admiring vocalists or medical students observing renowned surgeons. It also suggests that to enhance writing abilities, students might be encouraged by instructors to study professional essays included in the curriculum. It advocates for the practice of analytical reading, providing steps to hone this skill, with the assurance that repeated practice integrates this approach seamlessly into one's reading experience.
As a teacher, observing the interconnectedness between reading
and writing in my classroom has been an enlightening journey. The
interconnection between reading and writing manifests as fostering adeptness in
both disciplines. Engaging with the words of others not only broadens but it
also extracts the essence of effective writing to inform their own craft. Encouraging
students to create stories isn't just about comprehension; I’ve witnessed
how dividing these steps improved creativity within beginning writers.
The symbiotic relationship between reading and writing goes across
various disciplines. Just as singers dissect melodies and actors analyze
performances, writers delve into the prose of their contemporaries to refine
their art. Encouraging students to study professional essays included in our
curriculum serves as a foundational step in this journey. It's about discerning
the nuances of organization, development, and style, a process that enriches
their own compositional prowess.
Analyzing these texts isn't merely about understanding
content; it's about deconstructing the very framework of the writing itself.
I've observed how students, by meticulously dissecting essays, start unraveling
the deliberate decisions made by writers regarding structure, argumentation,
and language. This awareness translates into a more conscious approach when
crafting their own pieces, prompting questions that elevate their work from
good to exceptional.
The path to becoming an analytical reader, however,
demands dedication and patience. It's not a swift scan but an immersive dive
into the writer's intentions, strategies, and effectiveness. This process
involves multiple readings, note-taking, and annotating, serving as a gateway
to a deeper understanding of the text's intricacies.
Guiding students through the analytical process is transformative.
Initially, it demands a shift from passive to active reading, urging them to
scrutinize not only the content but also the author's methods and effectiveness
in conveying ideas. The emphasis isn't solely on comprehension; it is on
deciphering how an idea is presented, why it is presented in a certain way, and
whether that presentation resonates with the reader. It despites the initial
resistance from some students. Witnessing their growth in both reading
comprehension and writing prowess makes the extra effort worthwhile.
The step-by-step approach to analytical reading has proven
effective. From dissecting the author's background and intentions to examining
structural elements and stylistic choices, students learn to unravel the layers
of a text. Witnessing their evolution in evaluating theses, identifying
supporting points, and critiquing writing styles has been immensely rewarding.
Moreover, this process is not just about dissecting someone
else's work; it's about discovering one's own writing potential. As students
uncover new techniques and strategies in professional writing, they begin to
contemplate incorporating these elements into their own compositions. It is a
moment of realization; a bridge connecting the skills practiced as an
analytical reader to those utilized as a proficient writer.
Ultimately, fostering this reading-writing symbiosis in
the classroom isn't solely about enhancing literary skills; it's about
nurturing individuals who understand the intricacies of effective
communication. Watching students evolve into thoughtful readers and skilled
writers is an unparalleled reward in this educational journey.
Do you want to go further?
Steps to Writing Well with Additional Readings ( PDFDrive ).pdf
Author Unknown. "How Can Reading Well Help Me Become a Better Writer?" Title of the Textbook. Publisher, Year, Page Range
This is so true! Growing up, I was an avid reader. So when it came to putting my thoughts on paper, it came easy. Even as I got older, no matter the subject area (except Math) dissecting, understanding or applying what was read never became an issue. Thus, encouraging our students to be avid readers and teaching them analytical reading skills will greatly benefit their writing.
ReplyDeleteI wholeheartedly agree! Thank you.
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