Literacy Narrative
- 1,500-1,800 words / ~ 5-6 double-spaced pages
- 20% of course grade
Important Dates
- Wednesday, October 2: Introduction to essay, free write, brainstorm
- Monday, October 7: In-class Writing Workshop: personal drafting and writing group consult time (please bring outlines, papers, ideas, etc. to class in order to make the best use of this time)
- Wednesday, October 16: First drafts due in hard copy: one for me, sections for your writing group to review
- Sunday, October 20: EMAIL ME one complete paragraph that you’re comfortable sharing by 5 PM for review in tomorrow’s line editing workshop
- Monday, October 21: Line Editing Workshop
- Sunday, October 27: FINAL DRAFT DUE in writing folder BY 5 PM
A literacy narrative doesn’t have to be about reading, writing, or formal education. Becoming literate means becoming knowledgeable and proficient in a subject area, and that subject is up to you! The only real “requirement” is that it is a narrative that illustrates some sort of journey toward greater knowledge or understanding—of yourself, of the world around you. Once you decide on a topic, check in with me. I’ll make sure it’s appropriate while honoring your creativity and ideas.
As you can see from the timeline above, we will be building this piece of writing together, from the ground up. It will be a collaborative effort, so please make sure you choose a topic that you are comfortable sharing with others.
Remember: even though this is a more creative piece, your essay needs to have a consistent focus, and you need to develop your ideas and push yourself to think critically. Think of it as another critical analysis essay, but this time, instead of analyzing a text, you’re analyzing yourself, or a meaningful life experience. Keep asking yourself WHY you’re writing about your topic. Question your ideas, let them evolve. Surprise yourself!