Why Writing Across Genres Matters
As a writing instructor, parents often seek guidance in choosing classes. Often, they are surprised when I suggest Techniques of Creative Writing or Poetry as a follow up to Writing 5 Paragraph Papers or when I suggest Journalism after Rhetorical Analysis. Soon they come to realize that writing across genres is not a deviation from the plan, but the creation of a more perfect one.
Writing across genres means practicing different forms of writing—such as poetry, journalism, creative writing, and academic essays—to strengthen overall writing skills and confidence.
How Different Writing Genres Strengthen Skills
Learning to write across genres is similar to exposing a football player to ballet. Each discipline strengthens a different skill and supports the overall excellence of the athlete. Writing is no different. Poetry can strengthen vocabulary and word choice while writing the short story stretches the creative muscle.
These skills, when taken and applied to an academic writing course, can propel a young writer to a new level of proficiency and enthusiasm. Exploring multiple genres allows students to develop creativity, clarity, and stronger overall writing ability.
Building Confidence Through Genre Exploration
Writing across genres also builds confidence. A writer who struggles with thesis writing and MLA format might soar in imagery and syllabic haikus. Finding success in one genre can build the desire to apply oneself more fully to another. Success often breeds success.
When students experiment with different types of writing, they often discover strengths that help them grow as writers.
Helping Students Discover Their Writing Passion
But perhaps the most prominent reason to expose student writers of all ages to many genres is to allow them to find a style that they enjoy. Students who explore poetry, journalism, fiction, and academic essays often discover a voice or writing style that truly resonates with them.
They may even find a passion.
A Passion for Journalism
About 6 years ago, I had a high school student who was progressing steadily from one academic writing course to the next. She was doing well and building proficiency, but she wasn’t enjoying the courses. Writing was something she was learning, but it was also something that she couldn’t wait to put behind her.
Then she took a Journalism course.
And everything changed.
The short paragraph structure, emphasizing clarity and concise language, suited her writer’s voice. She found her niche with interview skills and hard news articles – and she was hooked. Soon she was applying to college with the intent to major in media and journalism.
The academic writing courses were important to her foundational writing skills, but if she had not tried a new genre, she may never have found her passion for writing.
Encourage Students to Try Every Type of Writing
So let your student experience all kinds of writing. Encourage them to explore different genres—from poetry to journalism to academic essays. Try them all and embrace the challenges and thrills that each genre contributes to their overall writing development and skill.
What Writing Classes Should Students Take?
Many parents wonder which writing classes will most benefit their students. A balanced approach that includes both academic writing and creative writing can help students develop stronger overall writing skills.
Courses such as poetry, journalism, short fiction, and essay writing strengthen different abilities. Poetry can expand vocabulary and word choice, journalism improves clarity and concision, and creative writing develops imagination and storytelling. Together, these experiences build confident and capable student writers.
Encouraging students to explore multiple genres often leads to stronger academic performance and a deeper appreciation for writing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does writing across genres mean?
Writing across genres means practicing different types of writing—such as poetry, journalism, creative writing, and academic essays—to build stronger overall writing skills.
Why should students try different writing genres?
Different genres strengthen different skills. Poetry builds vocabulary, journalism improves clarity, and creative writing strengthens imagination and storytelling.
Does creative writing help academic writing?
Yes. Creative writing helps students develop voice, vocabulary, and creativity, which often improves their academic writing and essay development.
How can students become more confident writers?
Students often gain confidence by trying multiple forms of writing and discovering the styles that suit their strengths and interests.