What We Dream at W@W

By WR!TERS@WORK

How do aliens learn creative writing?

Is Inspiration Enough?

How do we learn how to write well in English? Do we simply go to a new place, perhaps an abandoned building, a deserted park, or by the beach? And then, hold a pen (or pencil) and let the thoughts flow. Would that suffice? 

If we hold a relatively high proficiency in English, deeply connected with our five senses and life experiences, then perhaps we are able to do that. 

But, if an alien spy crashed into our sphere, with his mind brimming of other-worldly experiences, will he be able to produce a significantly good piece of English writing? Say, on drowning? Could the alien write within 45 minutes?

Teach: From the Ground Up: Signposting

Won’t it be better if there was a map to help the alien, along with our kid’s imagination and signposts that could help him stay on track. Perhaps with a good dose of English proficiency training included? That is our vision here at Writers@Work, only the best English enrichment in Singapore where you can find Primary English Composition Courses!

Signpost 1: QSP (Question-specific Phrase)

Let’s go back to that alien example. If you were to teach an alien about writing, wouldn’t it need to become aware of certain human events before writing on them? That’s the same with a child. He or she needs to gain in-depth sensory and logical ideas about a certain topic before writing on it. That is why here at W@W, we teach them to focus on writing a composition that mainly revolves around a topic.

Signpost 2:  PPP (Picture-precise Phrase)

Pictures chosen in composition exams are symbols. They point to the story that might be happening behind the scenes. They point to ongoing (but invisible) speech, character, emotion, and action. The alien who has been swept up onto earth (and the average child) requires focus – when it comes to the range of ideas he may choose from. The picture as a symbol helps the kid to channel those ideas into a logical stream to complete a story that orients around that particular picture. Without a focus on the picture, the story is lost, and imagination wasted. 

Wait, there seems to be something missing… how can the alien (or young child) attain enough vocabulary or grammar structure to articulate the story? 

 If you enjoyed this, stay tuned for signpost 3 and 4, the next time we explore the beauty and art of creative writing!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: 

Teacher Benedict graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature (Honors), along with a certificate in Teaching English to Second Language Learners (TESOL) from London Teachers’ Training College (LTTC) and has a unique blend of teaching and managerial experience in the private education sector. He was an Asst. Supervisor at a language preparatory school where he supervised teachers’ training sessions, curriculum design and students’ rubrics. Having taught a broad spectrum of students, elementary and advance learners alike, as well as both local and overseas students, Teacher Benedict has developed a learner-centric teaching style.