I Promise.....

I promise this will be a quick exercise for writers, teachers, parents, and students!

Let's go back to our lists again. This time, write a list of ten promises you'd like to make to yourself. For me it would look like this:

I promise to do my laundry before it overflows the basket.
I promise to keep my cell phone minutes under 1500.
I promise to spend less time at the barn.

You get the idea.

After your list is completed, chose one promise that jumps out at you. I promise one will. Take five minutes and elaborate on that promise. This is a fun exercise that will take no time at all. Why? Because you already have all the background knowledge that you need. No research or thought is required...I promise.

Just one thing, remember to paint a picture with your words. For example: I plan to spend less time at the barn even though the sweet smell of the hay is calling to me right now.

Teachers, be prepared for some of your student's deepest thoughts...they might just tumble onto paper!

Teachers and parents, if you're writing with younger children, this exercise can be done orally. Help them unleash their creativity. Prod them for awareness. Talk about a promise you would like to make. Model for your children what it means to be a writer by demonstrating spontaneity and fresh ideas....YOURS! Dazzle your children with the love of language that I keep telling you about!