Use this when you are ready to write an essay. You should apply the philosophy and structure of this “Age of the Essay” lesson:
This is a chance to experiment and explore. You are already free from the impact of grades on that process; now you can see what it’s like to write without any restrictions.
Contrast this writing assignment with the college essay, which has particular rules and rhythms you must follow. Contrast it with a reader-response essay, which we often use with summer reading and other required books. Those prompts give you good restrictions, or at least helpful ones. They focus your writing. This prompt derives has no such rules; instead, its structure comes from the writing process and a philosophy of observation and curiosity. Everything else is up to you.
You obviously need the two posts above to make the most of this essay. You also need to use the makerspace for its intended purpose: collaboration and experimentation.
With that in mind, the most powerful tool you have is this writing process:
There is a post for that process, as well.
Once you’ve decided to write an essay, use that guide to start collaborating in and outside of class. Break up the physical space to brainstorm and workshop ideas. Use this space — this post — to ask questions, share ideas, and get feedback on the process, and use other interstitial spaces, like Google Classroom, to talk about your specific essay.
The comment section below is the equivalent of a circled discussion, but it can be accessed anywhere and at any time. Take advantage of that. And remember: Err on the side of the river.