How to make writing interesting for students

I have been accused of being terse. I find that somewhat laughable these days as I write more of what comes to mind and publish it immediately; however, I used to agonize over finding just the right word and writing the most information into the smallest amount of space possible. I didn't aim to be brusque, merely concise.

Writing for a blog requires a different style. Words must be commonly understood, but not so simple to lose intellectual stimulation. Thoughts and ideas can develop and grow from one post to the next, and plans can emerge as the author is imagining the follow-up story. Blog posts can be fluid. However, they are still best, in my opinion, when brief.

So you guessed it. I have another suggestion today aimed at our popular Optimist International Essay Contest. I like the essay contest. I think asking students to write 500 to 600 words on a well-developed theme is a good model for a contest; but again, it does not take 4 to 6 months to write such a paper. Shorten the time allowed and set a deadline and we will get more contestants.

But my real suggestion today is not just to change something we already have, but rather to add something new like a blogging contest.  Start with these parameters: The Optimist International Blogging Contest will familiarize students with writing and technology tools that they will be using in the future and encourage ethical behavior on the internet.

We must begin to incorporate digital media into our everyday activities or we as adults and Optimist Club members will be left behind. At the same time, our students must learn to be safe and respectful in person and when they are hiding behind the computer screen.