How Many Words do I Really Need?

I tend to be a little wordy.  Looking at some of the writing pieces I have done this week I can really see how I can tighten up my writing approach.

Wait strike that…

Reflecting on this week’s writing samples, I can tighten up my writing.

Ok that’s a little better, but I’m sure there is probably an even better way to edit that sentence down. This week has made me realize that I miss writing and that I may need to start a blog. If I’m not trying to better my own writing skills how can I really expect to effectively instruct my students?

The Write Tight session really hit home with the kind of feedback I need to provide with my students. This last year I would do most of the edits on my students’ stories. I need to get them to a place where they feel more confident in their own writing. I want them to edit and review on their own and with their peers. I am going to review the clichés, redundancies and things to avoid with my students.

I’ve learned so much this week, and I do have to say while goodbyes are bittersweet I am ready to get back home. Going home means getting back to family who I have missed more that I anticipated, but it also means reflecting on everything I have learned and to start planning for next year.

So how many words do I really need? I think in this case just two: Thank you.

Jill Cavotta

Mater Dei High School

Santa Ana, Ca