Can writing be taught?

That's a great question: one worthy of an answer. As a writing teacher and a writer, I wonder about the benefits of writing instruction. Indeed, several things can be taught to a student. A writing teacher can teach:

1. The words we use,

• their speech sounds,

• the relation between speech-sounds and letters,

• their syllables,

• their original meanings,

• dictionary (denotative) meanings,

• social (connotative) meanings.

• and their spellings (British and U.S.)

2. The multiple ways we play with words, and the changes in spelling (form) when we use them in different ways,

• as a noun,

• a verb,

• an adjective,

• and an adverb

3. The order (grammar) of the language

Those are best learned in a group or with a coach (teacher), yet two other essential things cannot be taught. As much as a teacher wishes, love of words and creativity cannot be transmitted to the student. They are developed because language is learned effectively and efficiently. Yet these love of words and creativity have equal value with the functional things that can be taught.

The next few blogs will focus on how to foster a love of language and creativity for better writing.