So, a couple days ago, I walked my freshman through the process of writing a research paper- it was a very explicit lesson from (beginning) finding topic to (end) works cited pages. Of the 15 topics covered in this lesson, I wanted to know where my writers were most in need of help for future lessons. I asked which topic in this linear process they wanted more help with. Their answer? The actual writing. The INVENTION of the words.
I'm thinking on invention now. My invention process consists of opening a Word document and plastering all info into that one page. I then clip and rearrange from there. I know another grad student in my program who purchased a white board for her living room (!!), and uses that for her invention process. Some students still list isolated ideas/topics/paragraphs on a 3x5 card (and hopefully the corresponding citation!) and rearrange them on the living room floor until happy.
What is your invention strategy, when it's time to finally sit down and WRITE? Do you have any suggestions for my students?
My invention process is the same as yours Allena. I open a Word document and proceed to execute what I call a brain dump. I quickly type all my ideas, thoughts on the subject, and even a few questions. Most times I don’t even bother with complete sentences at this stage.