Voices from the Middle, Vol. 8, No. 1, September 2000

Table of Contents

Issue Theme: The Power of Publication

• Words Made Public/Voices Made Powerful

  Susanne Rubenstein

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  Abstract: Notes that publication of student work is too often ignored, partly because teachers and students are unaware of the many publication opportunities that exist, and partly because they do not recognize how powerful students' words are. Encourages students to publish because it gives them power of the most positive kind. Suggests 13 topic ideas for personal and business letters.

  Keywords: Middle, Pedagogy, Writing

• Prior to Publishing: Word Work

  Tom Romano

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  Abstract: Selection of a writing topic, then research, organization, language choice, drafting, response, revision. And that's just the start. Veteran writing teacher Tom Romano shares stories, strategies, favorite leads and more as he shepherds student writing through to publication.

  Keywords: Middle, Pedagogy, Writing

• Getting in Line to Publish Online

  Gretchen Lee

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  Abstract: Notes how the Internet is changing publication for students and how it is causing a revolution in the classroom. Provides an annotated list of at least 20 websites for student publication online. Discusses the safety/legal issues involved in publishing to the Internet.

  Keywords: Middle, Pedagogy, Technology, Writing

• Wired and Inspired: Publishing Student Writing on the World Wide Web

  Liz C. Stephens and Tom Mandeville

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  Abstract: Offers researchers' perspectives for online publication. Shows how to establish criteria for validating these sites as valuable resources in student-centered teaching and learning. Gives reasons why middle school writers should publish on the web. Presents a chart of 18 websites with a description and a list of key factors regarding the websites.

  Keywords: Middle, Pedagogy, Technology

• Going Public: Letters to the World

  Deborah Dean

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  Abstract: Notes that if students are able to publish, they are often more interested in engaging in the messy, challenging, rewarding process of writing. Describes experiences in writing letters to the editor and letters of appreciation or complaint. Concludes that through these experiences, students see how writing is powerful, accomplishes specific purposes, and gives them more control over their world.

  Keywords: Middle, Pedagogy, Technology

• Chapbooks: Making Old-Fashioned Books the New-Fangled Way

  Sam Swope

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  Abstract: Describes a group pioneering the process of "professional" publication of students' writing called Chapbooks.com. Discusses the author's experience with Chapbooks.com and three other "testimonies" from different schools. Concludes with an appendix of frequently asked questions about the website.

  Keywords: Middle, Diversity, Pedagogy, Technology

• Learning Writing: Lessons from a National Writing Project Fellow

  Valerie Hobbs

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  Abstract: Describes an assignment where the student must examine him/herself as a writer. Discusses the implementation of the National Writing Project noting its purpose to improve the teaching of writing and improve learning in the nation's schools.

  Keywords: Middle, Pedagogy, Writing, Professional Development

• The Way Stories Dance

  Gary Paulsen

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  Abstract: Describes the author's experience with editor rejection and acceptance. Discusses how he incorporates his experience with dog sledding into his work as a writer.

  Keywords: Middle

• EDITOR'S MESSAGE: The Power of Publication

  Kylene Beers

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  Abstract: Publishing can become an important first step in helping middle school students find their voice, gain confidence, and find purpose. The authors of this issue all understand the authority that resides in the published word.

  Keywords: Middle

• A HAND UP: Hearing Alex

  Chris Crutcher

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  Abstract: Through the story of Alex, a boy who had been molested and abandoned by his mother, and is now beginning middle school, Crutcher reminds teachers to attend to not only the minds of their students but also their hearts and souls.

  Keywords: Middle

• ONE LAST THOUGHT: Returning to the Purpose of Publication

  Jeffrey D. Wilhelm, editor

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  Abstract: Closing thoughts on the power of publication: "When we compose, we make our thoughts visible. When we do so, we become more alive to ourselves. If we share our writing, we can become more alive to each other, to ideas, to various ways of being."

  Keywords: Middle

• TECH CONNECT: Where Two Worlds Merge

  Nancy Patterson and Gloria Pipkin, editors

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  Abstract: Discusses publishing student writing online, how to evaluate online sites, and lists websites that publish student's works.

  Keywords: Middle

• PROFESSIONAL BOOK REVIEWS: To Write, Perchance to Publish

  Leigh Van Horn, editor

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  Abstract: Reviews five recent publications dealing with publishing in the classroom.

  Keywords: Middle

• BOOK TALK: Finding the Thread: Character, Setting and Theme

  Teri Lesesne, editor

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  Abstract: An annotated bibliography of books that exemplify the plot elements, character, setting, and theme. Includes guidelines on how to do a book talk.

  Keywords: Middle

• FROM STUDENT TO STUDENT: Student Choices: Books Kids Want to Write About

  Kim Ford, editor

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  Abstract: Books reviewed by students.

  Keywords: Middle

• THE VIEW FROM THE MIDDLE: Never Better for the Middle Level at Convention

  Bill Mollineaux, editor

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  Abstract: A preview of the 2001 NCTE Annual Convention.

  Keywords: Middle

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