WR 6. The metaphors we live by: learning is a flight 4-5 levels
WR 6.1. The write stuff. 4-5 levels 15-20min
GOAL. To learn ways of finding an angle to your composition.
WARM UP.
TASK1. Read the following text, where a successful writer gives some clues to focus your texts. Underline them.
The write stuff - By Josh Freed in The Gazette (Montreal)/ oct-2001
Writing is also a way to entertain readers, and the same time to enlighten them. I think a strong opening, lively imagery, humour and good writing are critical elements of good text , because they encourage the reader to read your story. And most texts should be aimed at an audience.
Finding a good angle
Half of every story is the spin you give it, a fresh angle that makes you see an old subject in a new and interesting way. If you’ve got a good subject, or a good angle, the writing and telling is always easier.
Why not be a bit more creative?
All you really need is an original thought or a catchy line that grabs the audience’s attention.
Imagery helps, too. Metaphors and similes take work to find, but they’re usually worth it because they let readers involve their own imagination in the story. Tiny, telling details are part of what makes good writing.
Josh Freed is a free-lance journalist in Canada. Best columnist in 1977 and 2002
[source: http://www.Wednesday-Night.com/JoshFreed.htm ]
TASK2. Which is the most difficult for you? From 1 (the least) to 10 (the most) answer below.
Ø my texts should be aimed at an audience. …….
Ø my writing is a way to entertain readers, ……..
Ø I try to enlighten my readers. …….
Ø To me it is hard to think of a good subject, ……..
Ø I fight to find a good angle ………
Ø write a strong opening/ending, …..…
Ø express yourself with lively imagery, …..…
Ø add a pinch of humour …..…
Ø add a couple of telling details to sharp my story …....
LANGUAGE PRACTICE
TASK3. Read the title of one of his humourous, but serious, columns. Answer the questions below.
WE'RE LIVING IN A REALLY SCARY WORLD - IF YOU DON'T BELIEVE ME, READ THE LABEL
Q1. The text starts with “Everywhere I went I saw warning labels telling me I was at risk”. Where could you see those labels? Guess?
Ø "Beware! Floor may be uneven!" ……………………………………………………………………..
Ø "Danger! Contents are hot." ……………………………………………………………………..
Ø "This product is not intended for use as a dental drill," ……………………………………………………..
Ø "Do not iron clothes on your body." ……………………………………………………………………..
Ø "Do not put any person in this washer." ……………………………………………………………………..
Ø "This Spiderman cape does not enable wearer to fly!" …………………………………………………………..
Ø "Do not immerse in water." ……………………………………………………………………..
Ø "Place on solid ground and unfold before using." …………………………………………………………..
Q2. In a Warning labels contest, which one would be the winner? ...........................................................
Framing the essay/column.
TASK4. Read the first lines of his serious column. Answer the questions below.
WARNING: This column contains humorous material that could result in sudden laughter. Please note that sarcasm, hyperbole and other cheap literary devices are employed. The reader accepts these risks and the dangers.
Q1. How does the opening paragraph express something surprising about the subject? .....................................................................................................................................................................
Q2. Does it succeed in getting your attention? How? ................................ ..................................................
TASK4. Read the last lines of his column. Answer the questions below.
NOTE: If you are experiencing nausea or fatigue STOP READING immediately and consult a physician. These may be symptoms of column overdose. BE ADVISED that no animals were killed or mistreated during the writing of this column.
Q1. How does it summarizes the topic or makes his point about the subject?
...................................................................................................................................................................
Q2. Which do you like most: opening or ending? ............................. ...............................
TASK5. Enjoy the abridged text (30%) in annex 1 and underline all the vocabulary related to law.
FOLLOW UP.
Observe how he places his message with a storyline (a visit to L.A.’s amusement park), contrasts Americans with Canadians and includes all his ideas on he topic passing form the personal (my son…) to the general (use of we / you).
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