speaking to 6th graders about writing!

[trixie]

Hi, I write and edit for a local magazine, and am in the research phase of writing a book, but I feel somewhat intimidated by an invitation to speak to these wee ones about careers in writing at a local school's Teach-In day. I have each of three Language Arts classes for about 50 minutes. I have a couple of ideas already, but would love suggestions from all of you. I have asked my publisher to give me some space in the January/February issue to a "winner" from the classes--an essay from a prompt I give them. Anyhow, HELP ME!!!!!!

[awatkins]

Oh, what fun! I taught creative writing to 4th and 5th graders for two years and found that they are bright, creative and very interested in writing. Sixth graders will be the same, I bet. :)

Here are a couple of suggestions: Take along samples of your published writing and talk about how you got to that point--from the idea, to the query, writing and editing, to the contracts and finally the published pieces. They will be very interested. Also invite them to ask questions, and don't be surprised by the things they come up with!

Good luck. You'll have a blast. :)

[Freckles]

That sounds like a great opportunity. You could talk about all the different types of writing and how writers get ideas, how the book is published, etc. Youngins are so cute. :)

[Pat~]

What a great opportunity! I like the ideas posted so far; another one might be to let them know of opportunities for their own work to be published (Highlights, Cricket, other kid's magazines) and show them how to go about submitting something.

[Kudra]

Kids that age (or any age, really) scare me! They're pretty smart, and have you all figured out before you've said a word. Direct forthright answers work best.

Good luck!

[trixie]

Thanks, Everyone. I think I will open with some creativity exercises ("Fortunately/Unfortunately") from the boards here is one that will appeal to this age. Then the whole bit about writing EVERY day. Some suggestions for submissions, contests. I have to be careful about steering them to the Internet, even though they are on there so much already. I don't need parents mad at me!