One of the things I heard the most during my teaching experience was, “How does this relate to my future?” and typically students would say this in relation to learning how to read Shakespeare, writing research papers, or something that wasn’t ‘blatantly’ relevant to the contemporary world.
I would always tell them that English (especially writing and reading) were two of the most important and fundamental skills for survival. I would talk about resume-writing, job applications, sending emails, etc. – all the relevant ways we use our English-based skills every single day. Sometimes they would nod in agreement, or stand there silently taking note, or wrinkle their nose in aggravation that they hadn’t stumped me.
What I’ve learned, however, is that writing is not only essential, it’s actually beautiful. Since leaving the education world and diving headfirst into writing and editing for my full-time career, I’ve realized how valuable writing has been to me, and want to share that with you in hopes that you can encourage both yourself, and your students.
1.Writing is a means of communication.
2.Writing connects people of all ages, mindsets, thoughts, and ideas.
3.Writing can create higher and deeper level thinking.
4.Writing can advance your career.
5.Writing can help you work with others.
6.Writing gives us value.
7.Writing is a process in development.
8.Writing can measure success.
9.Writing can open opportunities.
10.Writing unites us.
11.Writing can help build us.
12.Writing can heal us.
13.Writing allows us to speak with others.
14.Writing gives us value.
There is tremendous value in writing. Not only does it benefit us from a school-related or professional standpoint, but it builds us into better people. It serves a purpose beyond a mental discipline, beyond a grade in a class, beyond an effective means of communication. It defines us, our human connection, and our world.
Feel free to add to this list in the comments section and share with your students (citing me, please!).
Let’s foster a love for writing in our classrooms.
Featured Image Credit: Jess Watters