Dallas Woodburn's Blog, page 8

Q & A Friday: How to Build a Platform as a Freelance Writer

Hi, everyone, and welcome back to Q&A Friday here on the blog!

So, what is Q&A Friday? Often I get emailed questions about writing, teaching, editing, book recommendations, and general questions about the literary life, and I was thinking that other people might be interested in these questions, too! Q&A Friday is where I will answer one of these questions every other week or so. I hope you find it to be helpful and inspiring!

If you have a question, please feel free to email it to me at dallaswoodburn <AT> gmail <DOT> com with "Q&A Friday" in the subject line. Also, if you have thoughts to add to my answers, I would LOVE if you would share your ideas in the comments section below! My aim for this blog is for it to be a positive resource and community-builder for readers, writers, teachers, and book-lovers of all ages!




Question: I'm just starting out as a freelance writer and want to expand my areas of expertise, and also build my platform... but I have no clue where or how to start! It's overwhelming. Do you have any suggestions?

My Answer: Yes, I have been there and I know it can feel totally overwhelming! My biggest advice is to try to pick one small thing to do a day relating to building your platform... maybe that means doing some online research of markets you can send your work to; or reading and taking notes on a writing newsletter; or writing an article or blog post; or even starting a page on Twitter or Facebook for your writing career.

Here are some places to start that have been helpful resources for me:

One newsletter that I subscribe to that I love is Funds For Writers . It's free, comes out frequently, and lists a variety of publication opportunities and contests for that time frame. I like that it's manageable; if I happen to be really busy and "miss" looking at an issue, I can just move along the next one and boom! I'm up to date again.  Chicken Soup for the Soul is always looking for stories for their upcoming titles, with a variety of themes and topics. They list their upcoming topics and guidelines on their website. Note: there is definitely a specific Chicken Soup for the Soul "type" of story they are looking for... basically, it should be first-person, a true story, and about an event or a person that shaped your life in some way, made you think, made you better, gave you a new appreciation, etc. I would definitely recommend reading a few of the books before you submit. They pay $200 and 10 copies of the book. Another strategy that has worked for me to build my platform is to reach out to bloggers I admire and offer to write a guest post for them for free. It's a great way to build connections and expand your exposure.  ThoughtCatalog accepts essays on all sorts of topics, and could be a great way to expand your exposure, especially if you publish multiple pieces with them. I've had one essay published on ThoughtCatalog and I was pleased with the exposure, even though they don't pay.  Here are some compiled lists of blogs that accept guest posts, organized into topics: http://www.effectivebusinessideas.com/blogs-that-accept-guest-posts/ http://www.shoutmeloud.com/list-of-50-best-blogs-that-accept-guest-posts.html  http://www.petersandeen.com/list-of-guest-blogging-sites/ I hope this is helpful. If anyone has some additional resources to add to the list, please add them to the comments below!

The most important thing I have found when it comes to freelance writing -- and writing in general-- is to keep your spirits up, stay motivated, and believe in yourself. Perseverance is the name of the game. Remember that every "no" is one step closer to a "yes." Little by little, big things happen!

Previous Q&A Friday posts:- How do you manage class time when teaching creative writing?Dallas Woodburn
author, speaker, freelance writer
founder of Write On! Books and Write On! For Literacy
www.writeonbooks.org
http://dallaswoodburn.blogspot.com/

Interview with Writer & Filmmaker Marjory E. Leposky

Tell us about your various writing projects. What inspires you? 

To date I have written two feature films: Reasons? and Getting To The Game; two TV pilots, Gables and Who's Jared; one short film, La Fuente (The Fountain); and one animation script/children's book about a cat named Mr. Grumbles. Reasons?, Getting To The Game, and Gables -- the first three -- were written from anger over what was going on in my life and my world at the time. Who's Jared, La Fuente (The Fountain), and Mr. Grumbles were written a few years later, inspired by ideas that came to me and events that happened to me. For me personally, it is a lot easier to research and write from anger than from inspiration.

What made you want to become a writer? 

My parents are non-fiction writers. I never really had plans to become a writer, too. I'm really a filmmaker. I've been told that if I want to move up in my career, I should write my own projects -- but no one explained what went into getting them made: finding an agent or publisher, and raising the necessary funds. So I have had to learn all that myself.

Can you give us a peek into your writing schedule?  

I have not written a script in the past five years. I have spent this time grant-writing and fund-raising, looking for an agent and publisher, and trying to decide if I want to self-publish Mr. Grumbles, which would lead to more grant-writing and fund-raising.

When I am in a writing mode. I just sit down with good music on, and I write in Finaldraft. I do not write the old-school way with cards and strips. I might write an outline. Most of my characters just talk to me, and I write. I find that most of the time I have to do research on the subject I am writing about. I do interviews and "hang out" with the subject.

What is your biggest advice for people who want to write films? 

Don't waste your time and money on those $1,000-dollar writing programs. With screenwriting you need to know the rules before you start to change or break the rules of screenwriting. Do take a screenwriting class at either a community college or university.

What are your favorite children's books? 

The Giving Tree and other poem books by Shel Silverstein; and Tikki Tikki Tembo by Arlene Mosel and Blair Lent.

Is there anything else you would like to add? 

Start with writing from the heart. Then you need to do re-writes, which no one wants to do. Also, always have a good proofreader.

Connect with Marjory at the links below: 

Chatterbox Productions Web Site: http://www.ampersandcom.com/chatterbox/ La Fuente (The Fountain) Funding: http://www.ampersandcom.com/chatterbox/FundingFountain.html Funding for Mr. Grumbles: http://www.ampersandcom.com/chatterbox/FundingGrumbles.html  Facebook Page for Mr. Grumbles: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Mr-Grumbles/744246918938363Dallas Woodburn
author, speaker, freelance writer
founder of Write On! Books and Write On! For Literacy
www.writeonbooks.org
http://dallaswoodburn.blogspot.com/

Interview with Young Author and Entrepreneur Chental-Song Bembry

Chental-Song Bembry is the creator, author, and illustrator of The Honey Bunch Kids series, which she uses to promote literacy and entrepreneurship in youth. The Honey Bunch Kids is a humorous book series for boys and girls ages 7-12. The series follows the adventures of a group of middle-schoolers who learn the meaning of true friendship, respect, and getting along with others. You can purchase her books directly here.

Chental-Song was recently honored at the 2015 BET Honors as an "Early Riser" for her accomplishments as a young author and motivational speaker. Last month, she was honored as a Making a Difference Girl at the 2015 BET Black Girl's Rock awards show for her commitment to community service and education. 

Tell us about your book series THE HONEY BUNCH KIDS. What inspired you to write these books? 

I created The Honey Bunch Kids when I was 10 years old. At this age, I loved to read, write, and I loved to watch cartoons. I created three cartoon characters of my own and called them "The Honey Bunch Kids." When I turned 11, my mother sent me to a writing camp at Middlesex County College, where I wrote a story about my three characters, and I called that story The Honey Bunch Kids. In April 2010, The Honey Bunch Kids was published, and based on the overwhelmingly positive feedback I received from boys and girls, I wrote two more books: The Honey Bunch Kids: School's In Session (Book 1) and The Honey Bunch Kids: School's In Session (Book 2). Throughout each book, I highlight elements of African-American history, group dynamics, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.

In addition to being a writer, you are also a literacy advocate. Why are reading and writing so important, especially for young people? 

After publishing the first book in The Honey Bunch Kids series, I started the "Chental-Song Literacy Campaign," which allows me to travel to schools, libraries, and churches to speak to youth on the importance of literacy, goal setting, and the impact of reading on academic success. I believe that reading and writing are so important for young people because with reading comes knowledge, and with knowledge comes confidence. High confidence levels create the drive to achieve any and all goals in life. Writing allows freedom of expression and a chance to showcase creativity. It is an escape, and when people write, they discover stories inside of them that might have never gotten a chance to be exposed. The better the reader, the stronger the writer. When young people embrace literacy, they will be more inclined to tackle difficult homework assignments, and will be able to converse with others at a higher level. Literacy and education are crucial components to the success of a young person, and this is why I am so dedicated to the advancement of literacy in all children. 

You were a busy student in school when you first published THE HONEY BUNCH KIDS, and now you are a college student. What is your writing schedule? When/how do you find time to write? 

Currently, I attend Hampton University as a sophomore Broadcast Journalism major with a minor in Leadership Studies. Before sitting down to write anything, I make sure that my assignments are completed. I write (and draw) whenever I have the free time, and whenever a great idea hits me. If I cannot sit down at the computer to fully flesh out an idea, I will jot it down in my notes. I usually have more time to write and develop story ideas during Christmas, Spring, and Summer breaks. I always make sure to put energy into my craft each and every day, because energy creates movement in a positive direction.

Very true! What is your biggest advice for people (especially young people) going after their dreams and facing their own challenges in life? 

My biggest advice for young people (and all people) who are going after their dreams is to push forward, never settle, and do not give up. There will always be roadblocks and challenges along your journey to success, but you must remember that each challenge is put in your path to help you grow and develop into a stronger person. Do not fear challenges. Embrace them. Always remember that nothing of greatness comes without struggle. It is through hard work and difficulties that you become humbled and more prepared for the next chapter of your life.

Another piece of advice I have is a quote by Louis Pasteur: "Chance favors the prepared mind." You will only get your greatest opportunity in life when you are both physically and mentally prepared for it. You must always trust God and know that He has ordered your steps, and through Him, you can do all things.



Who are some of your favorite writers? 

Some of my favorite writers include Nancy Farmer, Virginia Hamilton, Zora Neale Hurston, and Maya Angelou. I grew up reading fantastic pieces by each of these authors, who influenced my passion for writing a unique story that all children can enjoy. 

What's next for Chental-Song Bembry? 

As I finish out my remaining three years at Hampton University, I am currently developing The Honey Bunch Kids book series into an animated series and a global brand, which will be featured on a major television network. From the animated series will come more books, and I will continue the literacy campaign I have started.

Is there anything else you would like to add? 

I am so grateful to God for each and every opportunity He places before me. I am looking forward to expanding The Honey Bunch Kids brand into an entertainment source that children around the world will enjoy, because I believe it is so important for all children to have positive role models within their cultures.

Here are links to connect with this amazing writer, illustrator, entrepreneur, and literacy advocate, Chental-Song Bembry:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheHoneyBunchKids?ref=hl  Twitter: https://twitter.com/chentalsong  Purchase The Honey Bunch Kids books: http://bookstore.xlibris.com/AdvancedSearch/Default.aspx?searchterm=the+honey+bunch+kids YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rIuPv1Em584Dallas Woodburn
author, speaker, freelance writer
founder of Write On! Books and Write On! For Literacy
www.writeonbooks.org
http://dallaswoodburn.blogspot.com/

Q&A Friday: How to manage class time as a writing teacher

Hi, everyone! I have something new that I am excited to debut on the blog today. 

Often I get emailed questions about writing, teaching, editing, book recommendations, and general questions about the literary life, and I was thinking that other people might be interested in these questions, too! So I had an idea to start a new feature on the blog called "Q&A Friday" where I will answer one of these questions every week or so. I hope you find it to be helpful and inspiring!

If you have a question, please feel free to email it to me at dallaswoodburn <AT> gmail <DOT> com with "Q&A Friday" in the subject line. Also, if you have thoughts to add to my answers, I would LOVE if you would share your ideas in the comments section below! My aim for this blog is for it to be a positive resource and community-builder for readers, writers, teachers, and book-lovers of all ages!


Question: When teaching a creative writing class, how do you manage the class time?

My answer: It depends on how long the class is, but I like to mix things up every 20 minutes or so. Usually we do a short "freewrite" prompt at the beginning to get kids in the "writing zone" -- for example, at my Summer Writing Camp, I have a prompt written on the board when kids come in. When everyone has arrived and has written for 5-10 minutes, I give time to share if anyone wants to read what they've written.

Then, we spend another 15-20 minutes or so going over the topic/lesson of that day -- maybe it's a class discussion about favorite literary characters and how we think the writer created such a memorable character, or talking about ways to re-start the story's plot if you're feeling stuck, or a compilation of descriptive-writing prompts to really delve into the setting. It's great to do class brainstorming where you write down what students say on the board so you have a wonderful list at the end full of ideas.

For the remainder of class, I  usually use one or two writing activities/prompts that relate to that topic -- for example, dialogue activities or character-creating activities, with time in between for students to share their writing if they wish. A lot of the younger kids REALLY enjoy sharing and it is a big motivation for them, so if you can it's great to build in that time.

Of course, during sharing it is important to only encourage positive comments and positive feedback. As a teacher, you can set this environment by asking, "What did you like about xxx's story/poem/etc?" and have the class raise their hands to share compliments. It's a great way to build each other up. And of course you the teacher should give them compliments, too! It means a lot to them, believe me. They will be looking up to you!Dallas Woodburn
author, speaker, freelance writer
founder of Write On! Books and Write On! For Literacy
www.writeonbooks.org
http://dallaswoodburn.blogspot.com/

Finding Your Voice as a Writer

“Words mean more than what is set down on paper. It takes the human voice to infuse them with deeper meaning.” –Maya Angelou 


How do I find my writing voice? This is a question I hear often from writers of all ages, and especially from young writers. And it is very closely related—indeed, I would say it is interwoven—with other important questions, such as:

How do I get “unstuck” when I am struggling with writer’s block? Will other people think my ideas are interesting enough? What do I have to say that the world will care about? Developing your voice as a writer is akin to developing your voice as a human being, as a global citizen of this one world we all share. Cultivating your own unique writing voice will resonate in all aspects of your life. It requires you to reflect on what you believe and how you feel comfortable sharing those beliefs with others. What feels natural to you on the page? What captures you most fully and truthfully?

All writers begin as readers, and when we first begin writing it is natural for us to write like—for our voices to sound like—the writers we most love and admire. The first pieces I ever wrote were Dr. Seuss-like poems; years later, in college, I was still honing my writing voice, working on magical-realism short stories inspired by Aimee Bender and George Saunders. Gradually, as I have grown and learned and developed as a writer—and as a person—my own true voice has emerged more and more clearly.

Now, when I sit down to write, I don’t sound like anyone else. I simply sound like me.

The process reminds me of breaking in a pair of shoes until they fit your own individual feet perfectly. You can even use your speaking voice to develop your writing voice! How? If you feel stuck, a great strategy is to “talk through” your idea to a friend or teacher. Better yet, talk it through to yourself by recording your thoughts—you can buy an inexpensive tape recorder or digital recorder, or many smartphones have free apps you can download.

Why does this strategy work? Speaking often feels like “less pressure” than writing; the more pressure you put on yourself to write, the harder it can be. Many people feel more comfortable talking out a story or essay instead of trying to write the words down on paper. Once you’re done talking it through, play back the audio and write down, word for word, what you said. Now you have your authentic voice down on paper, and you can edit and shape it as you wish!



The engaging and inspiring book, a picture is worth… the voice of today’s high school students  (available from Arch Street Press) used a similar strategy to help the students develop their essays for the book. The sixteen students featured in this outstanding collection write about everything from their families to their faith, from their communities to their experiences in society as a whole, from their past histories to their dreams for the future. In order to craft their essays, each student told their story to an interviewer, preserved it as a recording, listened to it and shared it, and—yes—captured it in written words. But the writing down of the story was simply one strand of a larger web of storytelling, connecting, and sharing.

In the introduction of a picture is worth… , David Castro and Alisa del Tufo write: “Particularly within the personal essay form, good writing demonstrates voice. … [B]eginning with each student’s voice, this project grounds itself in the essential strength of the spoken word as a harbinger of awareness, creativity, and human connection.” By discovering and defining your own voice as a writer, you are then able to engage with the voices of others—and that is how meaningful conversations happen and true connections are born.Dallas Woodburn
author, speaker, freelance writer
founder of Write On! Books and Write On! For Literacy
www.writeonbooks.org
http://dallaswoodburn.blogspot.com/

Guest Post: How to Become the Writer You Always Wanted to Be

How to Become the Writer You Always Wanted to Be 
a guest post by Cindy Bates
Being a writer requires time, devotion, passion and skill. For aspiring writers and those who have just started writing, a big challenge is how to become the writer you always wanted to be. There are times when you would end up asking yourself if you can really do this. Are you really good enough to write? All of these thoughts are completely normal. Even the most prolific writers have experienced problems like these and it does not take a best-seller for you to establish your identity as a writer. 

Here are some tips to help you make the most of your writing potential:

Trust in yourself and just write  

The most successful writers can only give you their own formulas of success. The same thing goes when you are writing a particular kind of content. Whether it is a simple essay, a short story or a novel, there is lots of information out there saying you must write in this manner, you do this and you do that. Sometimes, you face the predicament of doubting whether you can possibly write something significant -- especially when what you are doing is different from what others are doing. 

But always keep in mind that each person is unique in his or her thoughts and ideas. Trust in yourself and just keep on writing. Keep in mind that you write to express yourself and to share your ideas to your readers. 

Allot enough time for writing 

You can never find an excellent writer who succeeded overnight. Apart from talent, writing is also a skill that you must continuously hone and develop. Just as artists hone their craft, you need to practice writing in order to grow and improve. When you allot time for writing, you develop certain skills that are essential for writers, such as the ability to think fast, brainstorm ideas effectively, and organize your thoughts. 

Proofread your work 

It is never a bad thing to read through your work. Just don’t overdo it that you end up removing almost everything that you have initially written because you doubt your words. Keep in mind that the goal is not necessarily to identify what is "right" or "wrong" with your writing. As a writer, you can never please everyone; you can never get everything "right" with no disagreements. What you want to know is if you are able to express what you want to share to your readers and if the content achieves that purpose and goal. 

Accept constructive criticism

All of the most highly acclaimed written works went through a lot of editing and some even experienced numerous rejections. This is the flow and the process that most writers have to experience before their works are published. So, never be afraid to take criticisms and even rejection. You can learn so many things about your work from other people especially if the person reviewing your work is also a writer. It is much easier to see which parts needs to be changed or what needs to be removed. After a work has undergone a series of proofreading and editing, the best version of your work emerges. 

Set your goals 

All writers set their goals. Prior to writing, you have to know what is your purpose and your objectives. What do you want to achieve? What is your goal in writing a particular piece? Stating your goals clearly is a great motivational force. It serves as blueprint when you are writing, as you can compare if what you are writing serves your purpose and your goal. 

Put aside your fears 

To write effectively, you have to set aside your fears. Many writers worry whether they have enough skill to write or if their ideas are worth writing about. But when you finally learn how to let go of your inhibitions, you experience wonderful freedom to explore your thoughts and to write anything you want without self-doubt. Set aside your fears and let your ideas bloom and your thoughts wander. It is only when you finally cast away your fears that you get to tap your creative potential as a writer. 

All of these are tips that you can apply to become the writer you have always wanted to be. Yet, at the end of the day, every writer must establish his own identity and his own formula for success. The most important thing is to keep on writing and never doubt yourself. The greatest writers didn’t emerge overnight. It took years for them to reach the place they wanted to be -- and then, they continue to strive further onward and upward! 

About the author: Cindy Bates works as a freelance editor and writer at Bestessaytips. She used to write articles and share her knowledge and experience in educational sphere. Circle her on G+.Dallas Woodburn
author, speaker, freelance writer
founder of Write On! Books and Write On! For Literacy
www.writeonbooks.org
http://dallaswoodburn.blogspot.com/

Interview with Author & Mt. Everest Climber Paul Fejtek

Paul Fejtek has the unique distinction of being the first person ever with Brachial Plexus Palsy to reach the summit of Mt. Everest. He and his wife Denise are among only a handful of people in the world who have completed the “Peak to Heat Double” consisting of summiting Earth’s highest peak and also finishing the Triathlon World Championship, the Hawaii Ironman. Paul was named the Most Inspirational Athlete of the Year by the Challenged Athletes Foundation, and OC Metro Magazine named him one of the 25 Hottest People in Orange County, California.

Beyond his athletic accomplishments, Paul is a distinguished business leader. After the sale of his family-owned company, he began a flourishing career as an investment banker in 1997. Renowned for his deal-making prowess, Paul currently advises prosperous entrepreneurs on the sale of their businesses as a Managing Director of Ascendiant Capital Markets.

A popular business speaker and author, Paul has shared with millions his inspiring story and insights on achieving business success. Paul and his wife Denise have appeared on NBC News, ABC News, Fox News, and The Today Show. Together they are frequently keynote speakers for professional business groups and corporations, and have been honored to share their inspirational message on the prestigious TED Talk platform.

I am honored to have Paul with us on the blog today discussing his book Steps to the Summit!

What inspired you to write this book?
 Steps to the Summit: Reaching the Top in Business and Life is first and foremost an adventure story chronicling my journey with my wife climbing the tallest mountain on each continent around the world, including Earth's highest Mt. Everest. The book also draws useful parallels that readers can apply to their own mountains and challenges in life. Very few people have the privilege of doing something like this in their lifetimes and I felt the incredible experiences and valuable lessons learned were worthy of sharing with others. I was also inspired and encouraged after recounting stories from climbing adventures to others and hearing in response, "You absolutely MUST write a book about this!" So after the 20th or 30th person said this, I finally did.

I would imagine that there are similarities between writing a book and climbing a mountain; for example, both endeavors require remarkable persistence, inner strength, and determination. Do you have any mountain-climbing lessons that you could share for writers?

Indeed there are many similarities and in fact I've often said that writing a book can actually be more difficult than climbing a big mountain like Everest. And similar to a mountaineering expedition, planning, preparation, and setting intermediate goals can make a seemingly daunting task much more manageable and attainable. In addition to the book being an adventure story, it's also a guidebook to achieving true success with each chapter providing readers with a brief lesson or "Step" to reach their own summit, whether that be writing their first book or any other major life goal. Some of the 15 Steps in the book that are directly applicable to writers include:
"Make a Decision""Discover Your Creativity""Maintain a Sharp Focus""Move Fast"And one of my favorites, "Never Give Up."

What is your writing schedule? How do you find time to write?

I had to balance my writing with a full-time job as an investment banker, so my most productive time to write was early in the morning. In addition I always had my manuscript with me so if a clever idea flashed into my head in between conference calls or meetings, I was able to capture it in my notes or string together a few sentences or paragraphs before the moment of brilliance passed. I also put a schedule together with my co-author to make sure we stayed on track to complete a certain number of chapters by specific predetermined dates. The accountability factor made a huge difference and enabled us to complete a high quality manuscript within our self-imposed goal/deadline of six months.

What is your biggest advice for people facing their own challenges in life?

Good question. And I feel well-qualified to answer it because I was forced to begin overcoming challenges as an infant. During birth I sustained a paralysis causing injury to my right arm known as brachial plexus palsy. My advice is pretty simple: regardless of your challenges, whether physical or psychological, it's important to remember and truly believe that Anything is Possible!

Through my involvement with the Challenged Athletes Foundation, I'm fortunate to have many inspirational examples of individuals with far great physical challenges than my own. When I see regular people like you and me face something tragic like a double amputation of their legs or a spinal chord injury, and then come back and accomplish some amazing athletic feats, it's hard not to be motivated and put our own so called "challenges" into perspective.

   
Who are some of your favorite writers?

John Krakauer, of course. He did an amazing job keeping readers on the edge of their seat while recounting the '96 Everest tragedy in Into Thin Air.  I just wish my mother could have chosen a different book to read while I spent two months in Nepal climbing Everest!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF) is a registered 501(c)3 charitable organization, and 100% of the profits from the sale of Steps to the Summit go to CAF to help severely injured and disabled individuals get back into the game of life. This is accomplished through grants to purchase specialized wheelchairs, sports equipment, prosthetic limbs, training and mentorship. Thank you for spreading the word about Steps to the Summit and supporting the cause!

BIG THANKS to Paul for being a guest on the blog today and sharing his amazing story!
Purchase a copy of Steps to the Summit at http://StepsToTheSummit.com or through Amazon. Ebook available through Amazon, iTunes, or Nook. Dallas Woodburn
author, speaker, freelance writer
founder of Write On! Books and Write On! For Literacy
www.writeonbooks.org
http://dallaswoodburn.blogspot.com/

Teaching Creative Writing

One of my guided mentees recently sent me some questions about teaching writing for a class project she was working on. She asked fantastic questions, and gave me permission to share my answers with you! 
Here are some of my thoughts on teaching creative writing... I hope this post might be helpful or thought-provoking for any of you who teach writing, or are working on writing projects of your own! Teaching writing has, without a doubt, made me a better writer.


Is there a specific way that people should teach the writing process, or are there different ways that can all be good to learn? If there are different ways, what are the best ways to teach it?
Great question! In my opinion, the most important part of teaching the writing process is to be aware of the individual student and what they struggle with. For example, some writers struggle with getting started; others struggle more with editing a completed first draft. So part of being a great writing teacher is helping guide the student through their individual struggles with writing. 
Over-all, I think it is important to allow students to have freedom in the writing process to be creative and to make mistakes -- during first drafts, I tell my students not to “overthink” or be self-critical or worry about spelling/grammar mistakes. Those mistakes can always be corrected in the editing phase, and having your “editing” cap on when you’re trying to write a first draft can be very creatively stifling. I believe people write more and write better when they feel confident, are comfortable taking risks, and enjoy the writing process!
What tips do you give kids who are starting stories?
Don’t think too much -- just write! Tap into your subconscious. Try to start with a BANG! -- skip the “boring” stuff and start in the middle of things.
What tips do you give kids who are developing stories?
If you feel stuck, ask yourself, “What do my characters WANT?” There will likely be at least two characters whose desires are in conflict with each other… and conflict is what keeps plots moving forward.
What tips do you give ids who are trying to finish stories?
It will always be easier to start a fresh new story instead of finishing a story you’ve been working on for a while, but it is infinitely more satisfying to finish a story, so keep plugging away and don’t give up! If you’re trying to finish, don’t introduce any new problems for your characters. Rather, work on resolving the existing problems you have given your characters. Also, be aware that not every problem HAS to be resolved; not every loose end needs to be tied up. Some beautiful stories end with images, a resonant line, or a piece of dialogue that speaks to the overall theme of the story. It’s okay if your reader has some lingering questions, if not every single thing has been answered. In that way, stories are like real life -- we don’t have all the answers, do we?
What are some exercises you give students not just to help them develop a story, but to strengthen them as writers?Give students a simple sentence (i.e. “The cat walked across the room”) and have them add adjectives, descriptions, details to make it shine and be memorable.Ask students questions about their main character and have them answer the questions as if they are the character. (It is helpful for them to write their answers down rather than just saying them out loud, so they can look back at what they wrote.)Have them brainstorm details/descriptions using all five senses and work these details into their story. Often writers use a lot of “sight” details but forget about the other senses!I think the main thing is to be yourself. Kids blossom for authentic, kind, enthusiastic people. The best writing teachers I have studied under weren't the best because they had all the answers -- the most important thing was that they made me feel excited about writing, like I had something worthy and unique to say.
How is a younger student's thought process or natural writing process different than an older student? (For example, a second-grader versus a sixth-grader?)
Younger kids often write simpler stories (A + B = C) and they usually can’t juggle as many factors in their minds -- character-wise, plot-wise, etc. Thematically, their stories are often more black-and-white, with “good guys” and “bad guys” and less gray area. And that’s okay. These things develop with time. 
I think it is important when teaching writing at any level to let the student write the story he or she wants to write, and not try to change it into the story you want it to be. You can guide them, but it is still THEIR story, and your job as a teacher is to make it the best version of THEIR story as it can be.
Does changing your writing curriculum every so often help with a kid's creativity? If so, how often should you change it up, and how exactly does it help?
Yes, I think it helps -- especially because not every kid will blossom with every activity. Some writers are better brain-stormers, others like more-structured activities, others like less-structured activities. So if you mix it up, it forces kids to try different types of writing and use their brains in new and different ways. I like to mix it up by using a variety of word-based writing prompts, image-based writing prompts, and music-based writing prompts.
Another thing you can do is have students tell a story in a different narrative order; for example, starting at the ending and working backwards to the beginning, or starting in the middle. Or, you could have them take a popular story and write it from a different character’s point of view. (Think: Wicked versus The Wizard of Oz.)
What is the best way to help students when they are stuck?
Sometimes simply having them talk through their ideas while you listen and tell them it’s a good idea is enough to get them un-stuck. I like to jot down notes as they are talking to me, so then I can give them a piece of paper that has all the ideas they were just telling me about. Then I can say, “Look at all these amazing ideas! Now go write these down into your story!” 
Another helpful thing is to set a timer for seven minutes (I’ve found seven to be a good number -- more than five, but less than ten) and tell them they have to keep writing SOMETHING for that entire period. Even if they think what they are writing is silly or stupid, they just have to keep writing. This is a trick I use when I am stuck myself; it's a way to tap into your subconscious, which often helps you get unstuck.
How do I spark inspiration in kids?
I think your energy and enthusiasm will do a lot to make kids feel inspired. You want to set a tone of freedom to be creative and express imaginative ideas. You can also do things like bring in costumes for kids to “act out” characters, or magazines for them to cut out words or pictures that inspire them, or even a “magic writing wand” that you wave over all their heads before you start a writing session. Anything to make the vibe FUN and feel exciting and out-of-the-ordinary is wonderful.
How do I create assignments that will keep them entertained while also helping them learn a wide variety of tools and skills?
I think a great template is to have them read an example of a piece of writing that shows a concept you are trying to get across (i.e. realistic dialogue or vivid sensory details), discuss as a class why this piece is so effective and what is so great about it, and then give them time and space to practice that element of writing for themselves -- making sure you are positive and encouraging, always always! And then afterwards give them time to share their work and give positive feedback to each other, and review again what everyone learned about writing through that activity.
Anything else I should know?
I think the main thing is to be yourself. Kids blossom for authentic, kind, enthusiastic people. The best writing teachers I have studied with weren’t the best because they had all the answers -- the most important thing was that they made me feel excited about writing, like I had something unique and worthy to say.
Dallas Woodburn
author, speaker, freelance writer
founder of Write On! Books and Write On! For Literacy
www.writeonbooks.org
http://dallaswoodburn.blogspot.com/

Guest Post: Top 10 Editing Tools

Top 10 Editing Tools for Freelance Writers
A Guest Post 
by Robert Morris
Believe it or not, even professional editors rely on technology in order to come up with a polished piece of content. Since not all freelance writers can hire their own editors to clean after the mistakes they make, they can start using the same tools for ultimate effectiveness.
Although some of the tools in the following list take some time getting used to, they are still easy to incorporate into your daily working practice. The end result will be improved content, which is something everyone appreciates.
Merriam-Webster Dictionary and ThesaurusThis efficient website helps you check definitions, spelling, and word breaks. The online version works perfectly fine, but you can increase the effectiveness of the tool if you download the app available for iPad and Android. The difference is that the app has a voice look-up feature.
NinjaEssaysNo matter how many automated editing tools you use, they cannot replace a real editor who checks every single aspect of the content while preserving your writer’s voice. Hiring a real editor can cost a lot of money, but not when you’re dealing with NinjaEssays – an essay writing service that enables you to rely on the assistance of professional editors for a really affordable price. Plus, you can hire writers to help you when you get stuck with an overwhelming piece.
Adobe Reader XI Although some editors prefer using Adobe Acrobat Pro, the PDF XChangeViewer and Adobe Reader XI are effective as well. The PDF markup tool for proofreading the text before you print it will help you identify and fix the minor mistakes in your content.
CopyscapeEditing your own work is not only about fixing the flaws; the process also involves making sure that it’s free of plagiarism. Copyscape is one of the most efficient plagiarism checkers you could possibly use.
ReferenceCheckerNot many freelance writers bother with proper referencing. However, if you are writing serious content, you have to be aware of the citation standards before publishing it. With the help of this tool, you can check if the references in your writing are cited correctly.                    BibmeIf you have no idea how to format the references, then you should start using Bibme – an automated tool that helps you create citations in Turabian, APA, MLA, and Chicago style. This tool works best if you are working on lengthier content, such as an eBook for example.
PerfectItThis accurate editing software will help you identify errors and typos in a Microsoft Word document. All mistakes that went unnoticed under the word processor’s radar will be identified with PerfectIt. These are the aspects you can improve with this tool: abbreviation definitions, consistent hyphenation and capitalization, international spelling variations, list/bullet capitalization and punctuation, and capitalization of headings.
FileCleanerThis tool will clean up every formatting mishap in your content. Freelance writers usually write a lot of content on a daily basis, so it’s easy to miss some extra spaces between words, sentences and paragraphs, and leave other minor mistakes that could spoil the experience of a reader. The tool will clean unnecessary tabs, multiple returns, and other mistakes that contribute towards a messy-looking document. 
Microsoft WordWith so many tools available today, it’s easy to underestimate the value of the good Word. Your usual word processor can be a reliable editing tool if you use its entire potential through the following built-in tools: dictionary and spell check, reference tool, find and replace, table to text tool, reorder list function, track changes and comments, and more.
Link Checker for Microsoft WordThis tool will help you make sure that all internal and external links and cross-references in your document are valid. Link Checker enables you to look only for suspicious links, see all links in a tree view, and edit/remove links in a couple of clicks.   
Now that you have the list of top 10 editing tools for freelancers, aren’t you inspired to start delivering better content? Start using them today!

BIO: Robert Morris is a freelance writer from NYC. Homeschools his son, writes about science and love. Circle Robert on Google+.Dallas Woodburn
author, speaker, freelance writer
founder of Write On! Books and Write On! For Literacy
www.writeonbooks.org
http://dallaswoodburn.blogspot.com/

Guest post: Tips for Writing a Story

8 Tips to Start to Write a Short Story 
a guest post
by Julie Ellis
So, you want to be a writer, and the short story is your chosen genre. Actually, you are probably in a good spot, because it is often easier to get a short story published than a novel. Why? Because people still read magazines, either hard copy or in e-format, and the magazine publishing industry has adapted quite well to web-based publishing. Plus, so many of them are continually looking for good short stories to include in their issues. If you are new to this genre, but you have great ideas and stories to tell, then half of the work is already done! Your job now it to actually begin to write that first short story.

With that in mind, here are eight tips that a veteran writer can provide, that may make your task easier:

1. Write what you know firsthand: It is said that every piece of fiction, whether a short story or a novel, is a bit autobiographical. You must place your plot in a setting with which you are really familiar, or the events and the descriptions will not be credible. If, for example, you have no first-hand understanding of schools, you cannot set your story in a school, unless you are willing to do a lot of research. Such research should be reserved for novels!

2. Draw from real people as you develop your characters: The best way to have credible characters is to use aspects of personalities that you already know. Look to people with whom you have personal relationships. How do they behave? What excites or angers them? How do they speak? Most of my characters are combinations of people I know.

3. The Plot: I know that many writers spend a lot of time agonizing about setting up a conflict, a climax, and a denouement. What I have found in my own writing, however, is that these things really take care of themselves if I can outline a great plot, focusing on events and characters. Try it!

4. Don’t waste a word: A short story is really a fully condensed novel. You do not have the luxury of elaborate and lengthy descriptions, so don’t use them. Let the plot and characters “carry” the weight!

5. If your plot outline is not detailed, don’t worry about it – just write! I have often begun a short story with a simple idea for a starter, not even knowing where it would ultimately take me. I just start writing from that initial idea. No, it won’t be the final piece, but it will get my “juices” flowing, and I can always revise the storyline later. The key is to get something, anything, in writing, and then see where the idea can take me!

6. Carry a mobile device with you at all times. You never know when an idea will hit, and it is best to have an app that allows you to commit that idea immediately, for later use!

7. Read, read, and read: By reading lots of fiction, I get great ideas that may give me “fodder” for future stories. If you are not reading, you are not “percolating.”

8. Don’t “force” anything: It’s easy to become obsessed with getting a story completed, if only for the personal satisfaction of finishing something. This is a bad practice, and it results in stories that lack “flavor” and “engagement.” If you stall, let it be! I have a large number of short stories in folders on my desktop that are unfinished, and I’m okay with that. Someday, I’ll return to them, but the mood must be right!

Your love of writing is what has brought you to the point of writing short stories. Take any or all of these tips, if you find them helpful. Above all, however, find your own “voice.” Anything else is contrived and will not result in reader appeal.

Author’s bio: Armed with a Master’s in Journalism and strong wanderlust, Julie Ellis set out to explore exotic places, financed by her freelance writing. She is now a regular blogger for Premier Essay and sells feature articles to English-speaking publications around the world.Dallas Woodburn
author, speaker, freelance writer
founder of Write On! Books and Write On! For Literacy
www.writeonbooks.org
http://dallaswoodburn.blogspot.com/