Bird By Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life

Lamott’s book blends two distinct genres: It is both a writing manual and a memoir. What are the pros and cons of this approach, and what evidence in the book itself supports your analysis? On balance, do you think that this blending of elements enhances or detracts from the book’s effectiveness as a tool for developing writers?

Teaching Suggestion: This prompt is well-suited to a debate-style discussion, either in small groups or as a whole class. Even if students respond individually in writing, they may benefit from a brief discussion period before they begin writing so that they can consider opposing views. If your students are less experienced writers, you might remind them that the prompt specifically calls for a discussion of both sides of the argument before a conclusion is reached about the merits of Lamott’s approach.

Differentiation Suggestion: Students who benefit from strategies for organizational, attentional, or reading fluency learning differences may find it helpful to complete a 3-column graphic organizer in which they list autobiographical elements along with their thoughts on whether each element is a “pro” or “con” in terms of the book’s effectiveness as a writing manual. Students might also work with a partner as they gather and organize their evidence, even if their responses to the prompt will be individual.