Blurb:

Chapter 1 presents the book’s central thesis that student writing should be regarded as works in progress and that student writers should be regarded as works in progress as well. This thesis is demonstrated through the author’s teaching of “a most unlikely creative writing class” – a group of 5th year seniors who had failed the High School Proficiency Test twice. The author teaches poetry to the students who create poetry books. Chapter 1 demonstrates that a teacher’s unshakeable faith in students’ innate creativity can inspire basic student learners and engage them in authentic learning through creative writing. Chapter 1 concludes with Interdisciplinary Applications for Teachers and Students and a “Cotton Candy on a Rainy Day” writing prompt.