Welcome to My Expert Presentation

Since I am presenting on the genre of JOURNALS and how we can use writing journals as a tool for improving students abilities to read journal, I thought there was no better way to introduce myself than to write a journal entry on the subject.

What I think is most interesting about writing journals --especially e-journals (blogs, individual wiki page, etc.) --  the focus is most heavily on the writer and his/her point of view.   Certainly journals are a genre where "I" is ever present, even when the "I" is a simulated voice -- as is often the case when students complete a RAFT assignment.  

One of the final questions I want to consider with the 618 class as a part of my presentation is whether or not the 6+1 traits of the Journal Genre have dramatically changed....or what I really mean to say is WHICH of the traits have changed.   After all, I don't think the purpose has changed, I don't think there are any new limits placed on what topics or would be appropriate for journal writing.  In regards to VOICE/WORD CHOICE, I think the importance of the writer demonstrating a "legitimate voice" is still required.    

On the other hand, I do think that with the advent of digital composition, the audiences have changed and the format or PRESENTATION has changed.   And because audiences have changed and presentation has changed, I am wondering whether DEVELOPMENT and ORGANIZATION have to change as well?????  This still puzzles me.....

I am also wondering what questions the 618 students will be bringing with them to class tonight about reading/writing journals as well as teaching their students to read/write texts reflecting the journal genre.    I bet there will be at least one or two who bring in one of Cronin's "Diary..." books.

PS  Did you ever notice that is hard to say?   that's hard to say:  journal genre.  I certainly cannot say it as fast as I can type it.