Directions for extensive practice (focus on fluency and speed)

  1. Choose one of the fifteen prompts beginning here and set aside a specific amount of time to write (fifteen minutes, thirty minutes, or one hour, for example). Pay special attention to the suggested writing focus in the prompt (or any other focus your instructor recommends).
  2. Begin writing and try not to stop until the end of the period you have set. You might find it helpful to set an alarm or a timer.
  3. When you are finished, reread your work and highlight the parts of your writing that you like best.
  4. If you feel comfortable, read your work to someone else—a roommate, friend, or family member.
  5. Keep your extensive writing in a folder or binder so that you can refer to it as a source of ideas for future writing assignments.