Today I started writing a sequel to my novel. I was reminded how different it is to write fiction as compared to non-fiction. I tap into a different part of my brain. In fact, during creative writing, I might not always look like I am writing. In the moments my fingers aren’t clacking at the keyboard, my brain is spinning with ideas. I need those moments in order to write.
I suspect that my creative process is not unique.
When we ask our students to write narratives, we should remember that this process will be quite natural for some and quite challenging for others.
It is essential to provide our students with sufficient scaffolding and support before they begin to write creatively: mini-lessons, mentor texts, and plot patterns.
It is also essential that during creative writing, we realize that students may not look like they are writing; however, we cannot see what is happening within. If we’ve done our jobs well during pre-writing, their brains may be spinning with ideas.
Robert McKee once said, “Storytelling is the most powerful way to put ideas into the world.” Write on!
Cool description of what goes on in the brain before the writing hand begins its task.