LIKE MOTHS TO A FLAME: HOW TO GET KIDS TO LOVE WRITING
A Boot Camp for Teachers

A professional development course of study encouraging:

***problem solving based on an awareness & appreciation of one's surroundings
***a sense of what it means to be creative & the necessity to keep that space inviolable
***the ability to give & receive criticism
***a (non-denominational) sense of faith in the continuity of things increasing confidence & self esteem

Although essential, writing remains  elusive to many young students today. With everything from video games  & TV culture to standardized testing getting in our way as teachers, it is frustrating to navigate the turbulent cultural waters that surround our youth and pull them under. Yet language, particularly the written word, remains the key to a students sense of self and empowerment. How do we inspire them?

In this boot camp style class, educators will learn a rigorous nuts and bolts approach to writing: An organic and inspired methodology will be shared, complete with lesson plans and writing exercises, that will be adaptable for youth at all levels.  Implementing sources as diverse as literature, film, rock and hip-hop music, community service, meditation and yoga as resources for the imagination.  This course study, tested time and time again with the most recalcitrant students at many developmental levels, has proven inspiring and engaging -- enhancing self esteem, group dynamics and literacy skills.

Teachers will be led through a model exercise at the end of each class day, participating as writers themselves.  There will be plenty of time for question/answers and curriculum development throughout the intensive.