Young Writer's Program- Some Reflections

  
My involvement in presenting the Young Writer's Program in conjunction with P.E.T.A.A. (Primary English Teacher's Association of Australia) and the Victorian Government over the last two years has enabled me to share a range of writing ideas to support the continuing development of enthusiastic young writers. 

    These student writers have demonstrated an aptitude and interest in writing and have participated with much enthusiasm in these two day workshops. 

    For more information regarding this program, contact PETAA.




   * Many of the recurring messages shared with these young writers are applicable to all writers, so I happily share them now:








  • You need a good pen or pencil with you at all times. It should feel balanced and comfortable in your hand when you write. 
  • It is an advantage to carry a writer's notebook at all times. A notebook that suits your particular needs as a writer. A notebook that is not just for school. 
  • Writing in a writer's notebook can have a positive impact on one’s mental well-being, research tells us. It can also assist memory, immunity to negativity by aiding stress management. It provides an excellent outlet for our emotional responses. 
  • Never write about things you don't care about, or for. Never write just to please a teacher. Write about those things you care about or have some connection to.
  • Writing begins with an idea, not a title or a specific genre.
  • Writers don't write in a genre, just to practice it. They write in a genre because it meets their needs. 
  • Before you sit down to write, you need an idea, not a title or heading. 
  • You can write anywhere, anytime, anyway...
  • You may well have to do some of these things before you write, - talk, draw, plan, list, read, think, rehearse, research before you write.
  • Try to bring your best words with you and if you can't find them straight away, keep writing until they begin to appear on the page.
  • Keep everything you write, You can learn from all of your writing- the good and the not so good.
  • You must be a reader. We breathe in books- we breathe out words.
  • Writing in all its forms can improve your creativity and strengthen expression. 
  • Writing provides a powerful opportunity to share a part of ourselves. By writing regularly, we are reminded how important writing is to each of us.
  • Writing allows us to make contact with our own unique writing voice. 
Alan j Wright






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