The importance of writing became evident
to me after having completed honours in liberal arts and a major in history. Content
area writing in history, is of utmost importance. Students need to be able to
write outside of the typical essay format that they are presented with in
English classes. In regards to history, it is important to be able to write in
a clear, concise, and coherent manner when analysing an historical text or
putting forth their personal opinions. The application of content area writing
in history can be done by providing students with subject matter and having
them write their thoughts, feelings, etc. that they have regarding a given text
or subject matter that is presented to them in the classroom. This can be
implemented within a history class in various way, such as free-writing
activities, having students write short journal entries, and writing about the
same subject matter but from different perspectives. This will aid students in
engaging with the material but it will also help them work on and improve their
writing skills. I believe that writing is an essential and vital skill to have
when confronted with history, because it requires students to take an
analytical approach. By incorporating writing activities within this given
subject, students will not only improve their skills, but they will learn how
to formulate their thoughts and learn how to better express themselves while
writing.
