Introduction

You may ask yourself, "Why do I need to write using correct grammar and proper English?" Well, the answer is that although we live in a culture that is made up of many different ways of speaking and writing, we all work in a culture that needs to figure out who knows what and how much of it. Writing is how the world knows how much you know. In other words, teachers, bosses, and college admissions really only have one way to know whether or not you understand the product that you are putting out into the world--in this case, your ideas-- and that is through writing. You have already been asked to write countless essays to show that you are learning the material in school, but soon, if you have not experienced this already, you will inevitably also be asked to write a memo for work, an essay explaining your desire to go to a specific school, or even maybe a statement about why you should be chosen for a specific office or duty. And, of course, you are also going to be asked to prove that you can write at a level which will ensure success in your impending college career. In all of these cases, you are going to need to write in correct, compelling, and proper English.

For those of you who are worried that you might not be able to do this any time soon, or who perhaps might not really want to give up the language you grew up speaking in your homes, you need to remember that writing correctly is perhaps one of the most important things that you will ever learn or need as you make your way into the world. I wish I could say that it is easy, but I know I cannot. I can, however, say that it really is not as hard as you may think, and, if you keep up with all of the lessons in this class and use this summer to focus on becoming a stronger writer, you are surely going to surprise yourself with just how much better of a writer you are going to become.

But perhaps you already know you want to become a better writer and are eager to get started. Perhaps, in other words, you are ready to ask yourself, "What is good writing?" And, more importantly, "How can writing change my life and perhaps even help me change my community?" Writing is, of course, just the combination of words, grammar, and intention. Good writing, however, is writing that expresses ideas clearly and effectively. The best kind of writing paints a picture in the reader's mind, a very clear and definite picture. Once readers see the picture, then the writing has conveyed the idea. If you can convey powerful ideas, then you can change the world.

Soon you will be on your way to using writing to effect real change in your community, and who knows, perhaps even beyond. For now, it is going to be a fantastic summer!