Writing comes in many different forms and styles. There is no specific way to write which is what makes the topic of writing so complex. However, it also makes studying writing extremely interesting.
You Can’t Teach “Writing in General”
Elizabeth Wardle dives into the concept that it is impossible to “write in general” in her article “You Can’t Teach ‘Writing in General’.” While everyone has their own way of writing, this is also true of speaking. Every individual has their own way of speaking, their own vocabulary, and their own way of communicating. In addition to this, people speak differently according to who they are speaking to. The same applies to writing. In a professional manner, one will speak with poise and respect. However, when speaking to friends or family, an individual changes their vocabulary and even tone of voice to a more casual manner. In the same way that there is no right or wrong way to speak, there is no right or wrong way to write. It solely depends on the context and environment in which one is writing or speaking. Ultimately, writing is like a conversation on paper.
In addition to this, an individual’s writing improves as they learn more about how to write and gain knowledge in how they should write. This is similar to how one speaks and what they talk about. When an individual lives through differing experiences and gains insight on different cultures and environments, the way they speak will improve and change. As we learn and grow through experiences, our knowledge expands, our thinking becomes enhanced, and our speech and writing both benefit.
While it may not be possible to “write in general,” it is also impossible to speak in general. Context and environment both play a huge role in what is written or spoken. Writing can be improved and developed, but it cannot be taught in a general manner.
Finding Your Way into a Writing Assignment
In the article “Looking for Trouble: Finding Your Way into a Writing Assignment,” Catherine Savini supplies an efficient way to brainstorm that can be extremely helpful when it comes to writing. It is easy to talk about a problem, and effective to try to solve it. To present a problem and then a solution gives a sense of accomplishment to readers. People read for a purpose, and by using this method you are providing them a reason to read. This method works for almost any style or genre of writing, whether it be fiction, non-fiction, essays, narratives, or more.
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