Writing Strategy for Elaboration

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Writing Strategy for Elaboration
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Step 1 Pick an object.
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Step 2 Make a statement about your object.

• (Indent) I have a _____.

I have a fountain pen.
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Step 3 Write several sentences, using at least
three adjectives to describe your object.

• Adjective A word that describes a noun or
  pronoun. An adjective may tell what kind, which
  one, how many, or how much.

It is black, round and fatter than most pens. It
uses regular ink, usually black.
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Step 4 Write a sentence telling what your object
does or what you can do with your object.

• Verbs are action words. Strong verbs add more
  information to the sentence. Weak verbs are
  words that have been over-used or dont add any
  new information to the sentence.

Naturally, I write with my pen.
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Step 5 Write several sentences using adverbs
which describe more fully the action of your
object or the action you do with or to your
object.

• Adverb Modifies a verb, adjective or another
  adverb. Adverbs may tell how, when, where, in
  what manner, and how often.

Sometimes I write quickly and the words flow fast
off the gold-colored tip. Other times, though, I
think hard and long over each word. Then my pen
moves slowly across the paper.
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Step 6 Write what your object is like. Make a
metaphor or simile about your object. Then tell
in what way your object is like its comparison.

• Metaphor Figure of speech that compares two
  seemingly unlike things without using words such
  as like or as.
• Simile Figure of speech comparing two basically
  unlike things, using words such as like or as.

When I look at my pen, it reminds me of a dark
snake about to strike. When I am angry, my pen
does strike. It strikes the page with short
bursts of venom until I am rid of all the angry
movements. As I hold it, it becomes a baton
making harmonious music across the page.
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Step 7 Create a conversation with someone about
your object.

• In writing dialogue, always indent each time you
  change speakers.

The other day my friend asked, Where did you
get that unusual pen? From a friend, I
answered. Its beautiful, but it is so big.
Isnt it a mans pen? I think so, but I dont
care. My friend gave it to me as a gift, so it
is special.
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Step 8 Write any other details about your
object. What might it taste like or feel like?
Does it make any sounds? DO you notice anything
unusual about your object?
After this talk, I got to looking at my pen more
closely. I found out that it is called Mont
Blanc which means White Mountain. I dont know
why it is called that, but its name probably has
something to do with the funny white mark on the
top of the pen.
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Step 9 Conclude by saying something to your
object as if it were a person.
My pen goes with me everywhere. Sometimes when I
take it out of its case, I whisper, Hi friend.
What shall we write today?