Triggering creative writing in teens

Album artwork (unseen)

This activity is an oldie (like me), but still a worldie!

My high school class on Thursday evenings has been focussing on music recently - what we listen to, when, how it makes us feel etc. Obviously, as the fuddy-duddy in the room, I have no clue about the J-pop & k-pop sounds they are into...and they have no comprehension of what a CD collection is!

With a (scary) blank piece of paper, they were tasked to draw any image that came into their heads from some music I'd chosen (an EP, for vinyl fans = more time to be creative!)...and to then pass their picture on to the left & keep drawing, in the vein they were inspired to be feeling/imagining, and so on until they got their original picture back, with everyone else's contributions 'on top'.

Once the imaginative juices had been fired up, the follow up task was to keep the music in mind & use the artwork created to 'see' an imaginary holiday experience, and to write a postcard thus inspired. You will see unique takes on Bob Marley's Iron Zion Lion reggae track here in the next few days - I hope you'll enjoy!

Artists at work!

I'm never critical about 'drawing' or art skills - I'm rubbish! I was hoping that my students would show their imagination & reactions to the team pictures & the vibe from the music, and explain their holiday so far, current activity, and plans for the next day or two > subliminal aim = demonstrate control of a variety of tenses. How did they do? Any other tips on getting cool music into high school students' doamin?!

That's right, that's write - I love your tiger feet?!

And for a lighter moment (and a look at where all Japanese boy-bands got their moves from?!) cop some Mud from 1974!

https://youtu.be/EQfidTOTsLo

Letter to Othello

Dear Othello,

I am writing this letter to let you know the story which is very important to you. Please read through this letter as soon as you receive.

I happened to hear the conversation between Iago and Roderigo before we came to Cyprus. From their conversation, I learned Iago’s plans for revenge.

Othello, you must not trust Iago. He is not the good man. Iago complained about you because you didn’t choose him as your lieutenant. Iago has been pretended to respect you and trying to get what he wants from you.

Iago asked Emilia to get the handkerchief which you gave to Desdemona and left it in Cassio’s room so that you misunderstood Desdemona and Cassio are in love. They always tell you the truth and never betray you. You should trust Cassio and Desdemona.

I am your friend, Othello. Think carefully who you should trust. Please let me know if need my help.

Sincerely,
Tomoko