Composition
Processes
Completed by few but the starting point of something create, composing processes tend to be a left out step in writing. We all dread when that "First Draft" is due and we're required to have some kind of outline or planning attached; but what's so bad about knowing the direction you're heading? Composing in writing is like navigating a map but with composing, you have the flexiblity and opportunity to change what you've written at your discretion. Whether it's an outline, start to your paragraphs with details or some kind graphical representation, it aids to a well-rounded composition of your work and saves you some time on wondering "what should I write next?" Even though direction is the major purpose of composition, the most important factor is that these processes will tell you if what your writing sounds well, is valid and if you're going to be proud of your work. Composing processes can vary depending on the work youre doing. For example, if you're making a video for your YouTube channel, your steps might deviate from composing for a paper. However, there are definitive steps in the process of composing for anything, let's take a look!
In this Free Write, as a class we responded to a promt regarding one of our homework assignments. This pre-ceeding assignment was to create a proposal for our multi-media group projects. Here, Mrs. Cook asked us to write about composing processes we used and how we could link this to other SLO's. It's important to first definiitively decide on the topic you're doing before completing any research; don't be wishy washy! Next, decide some larger points you would like to consider. What's your argument here? What message are you trying to send and to what group? Do your research and complicate the issue! Is what you want to say making sense to you AND your readers? Throughout your outlines and drafts, are you keeping your knowledge of conventions in mind? Is your diction elegant enough for that thesis or is your voice sounding a litle too vapid for that new audio blog? Read over and aloud multiple times! Catch the errors, decide if your work is written in a consciously flowing matter and most importantly... know what you're writing about!
Courtesy of @CIS*2050*DE on Youtube
This video serves as a great tool for all types of writing. The author highlights the importance of knowing how to write because no matter what path in life you choose, writing will be involved in some way. Even Amy Poehler, comedian and actress, wrote a book, Yes Please, and titles her preface "Writing is Hard." Poehler states that, "Everyone lies about writing. They lie about how easy or how hard it is" and revealing the truth she's discovered: "The truth is, writing is this: hard and boring and occasionally great but usually not" (x). So readers, if you think writing that paper is hard and you're bored after writing the introduction... you're not alone! Persevere through it and don't go with the thought "I just want to get this done."Complete your work fully, with integrity and know what you're talking about.
My Perspective
To steer clear of confusion and becoming tense through your writing process, plan it out! You know you have to write, that part's never going to change, so use your skills and make the most of it. Research, plan, set deadlines and read, read, read! Your writing and composing processes are going to dictate your entire work. Are you going to be lazy and procrastinate until the last minute, causing your work to suffer; or, are you going to be proactive and take pride in your work to do a good job? In combination with other skills like inquiry, knowledge of conventions and context, you're composing steps will be breezy and free of the "I just want to get it done" moments. Don't forget the uses of editing and revision in combination with letting other people read your works. Use your knowledge and apply yourself, it will save you time and possibly a few mental breakdowns in the future.