EditWriting
Some people love to write and others hate to. Whether you like writing or not, it is important, especially in our computer-based world. Many professional business conversations use email. College courses require you to write. If you want to communicate to the English world, you will need to write.
EditWhere Do I Start
I am an ESL teacher and a freelance writer. I love writing. However, sometimes when I am given an article to write, I don't know where to start. I'm not sure about what to write or I may not know anything about that topic.
When I'm stuck, I like to use a technique called clustering. A cluster is a group of circles (or any shape) that contains words or ideas. Arrows connect related words or ideas. Clustering is a form of brainstorming, a simple pencil and paper technique to write down some ideas.
Imagine you need to write a composition about your favorite type of music. Here is a cluster for that topic.
Now, I use that information to write my composition.
"My favorite music is World music. The instruments and the rhythms are what attracts me to this music. Instruments that I like include: the tablas, congas, timbales, and the guitar. I love all types of guitar music!
I love the rhythms of Indian and African music, and especially Latin music. My favorite styles are the rumba, tango, and samba."
Now it's your turn to write. Tell me about your favorite type of music. You don't have to create a cluster, but if you get stuck, take out pencil and paper and do a bit of brainstorming.
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