Tools+for+Writing

To avoid grammar mistakes in your memoirs, use the tips from the following website to help you produce a well written piece. If you click on individual topics on the left side of the screen, there will be even more detail on how to use each part of writing.
 * Grammar Guides **

[|Purdue OWL: Grammar]

If you can't find what you are looking for on that website, try this one:

[|Grammar Handbook]

**Tips for Writing**
 * Begin writing a first draft by thinking of all the details you would like to include in your memoir. This draft doesn't have to be pretty, just get all of your thoughts and ideas out then refine it later. It is easier to shape something that exists than to come up with new material. Remember, no one is going to see this draft so let it all out and worry about conventions later (ask to see one of my first drafts, they aren't pretty).
 * Try to avoid repeating the same words. There are plenty of synonyms for every word. Find them.
 * Mix up your sentence structures. They don't always have to progress through article, noun, verb, adjective.
 * Use powerful verbs that will convey the feeling of your memoir.
 * Avoid "great" and "nice." These words are overused and will only bore the reader. Again, there are plenty of synonyms for every word, especially for "great" and "nice."
 *  Play with comparisons, similes, and metaphors. If it just isn't working, you can always cut it out.

 **Vocabulary Assistance** (Inspired by Heather Lattimer) Word choice can have a huge impact on the feeling, tone, and impact of an essay. Therefore, as a class we will work to develop stronger vocabulary for you to use in your memoir. You will each be assigned a common word to find a variety of synonyms for. Once you have created your list of synonyms, you will present them to the class. After everyone has presented their lists, I will create a handout full of the class' synonyms and give one to each student to have as a reference.