July 19, 2009

Society of Sarawakians Writing in English - Pustaka Writing Workshop


Cikgu Catherine from Sri Mulia School and her students listening very attentively to the speaker.



Florence Enau interacting with a budding writer.

More writing!

Thinking is "on".


A chat with an adult writer.

Pustaka Miri and the Society of Sarawakians writing in English conducted a joint workshop on Saturday (18/7) afternoon at the mini auditorium. The event attracted more than 60 students interested in spending a Saturday afternoon writing in English!!

Two speakers (Florence Enau and myself) gave a short input each on "Tips on Writing Non Fiction" and "The Important Elements in Writing". The students listened very attentively with every one intently taking down precious notes. For a long time I have observed that this ha become the preferred habit of good Malaysian students. Although the participating students were not very vocal their very "engaging" looks showed that they were enjoying the interactive activities.

Several Soswe members and English teachers moved around the auditorium to help answer questions while the students were writing.

The short one hour of writing time allocated for their work was all too soon over. However the short workshop was very productive indeed when every one handed in a well writen original piece!!

The organisers would edit the work and have them published on the Soswe Blog
from time to time. Do call these numbers if you have any queries: Jennie 0168883679 or Sofina 085-422525.

It was felt by the organisers that the afternoon was well spent. Furthermore the students gave very positive feedback for such an activity. Some parents who turned up also suggested further interaction.

It is even possible that if funds are available in the near future the work of the participants might even be published! This would indeed encourage the younger generation to be interested in non-fiction as well as creative writing.

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