Today was the second day of my new Creative Writing class. We're starting our "What If?" exercises. (At the beginning of each class, I give the students a creative a prompt, and they write for 15 min., then share with the class, if they want).
Today's prompt: What If you were a member of the opposite sex, getting ready for a blind date? (avoiding stereotypes as much as possible <---they giggled when I said this, because they know how difficult that is to do). Three students read theirs - 2 girls, 1 guy. Each was filled with wonderfully-descriptive detail. And yes, there were a few (minor) stereotypes. But, it was all in good fun, and the tone of each piece was light. The other students giggled in all the right places. I love to give that particular exercise early on in the semester because it breaks the ice, gets students to relax a little bit. And - most importantly - it helps them not to take themselves too seriously. Writing should be fun and a little bit silly, from time to time...
*By the way, I've listed the What If book over to the left, under "Favorite Books." Highly recommended.
Sounds like a great way to get those creative juices flowing and help students realize writing can be FUN.
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