JOU Kids On Your First Draft
Q: AHHHHHHHHHH. It…ALL…RED….AHHHHH
A: yes, many of your papers are marked up beyond all recognition. This is expected and nothing to be worried about. These are drafts — and while it’s always traumatic to see that (because it’s likely not happened oftentimes in your writing careers) — remember two things:
- everyone is in the same boat
- you will be a much better writer (even if you try the old, “I’m a good writer, I just write in a different way” argument). trust me, grammar, syntax, structure and logic work across ALL forms of writing.
Q: BUT…
A: Seriously, it’s going to be okay. We’re going to do a few exercises in class tomorrow to make sure that we get your story architecture and structure in order for your second re-write. The class isn’t about destroying your will to write (although that happens sometimes when the errors of 14-16 years of schooling happen) ; the class is about giving you a wicked smart set of tools you can apply to this — and future — information gathering and writing.
Q: I DO NOT LIKE YOU AND THESE SILLY JOURNALISM STRUCTURES
A: Yes, I know. On the bright side, after we work on tomorrow’s exercises with your work as the text — you will at least not mind the silly journalism structures. This will get easier. As for me — all I can say is what my parents tell other folks: they tried their best.
Now, don’t freak out about all this. We’re going to work it all out in class tomorrow. Sleep well. Bring your hard copies to class — and get back to it.
