The Multi-GenreThe Multi-GenrePortfolioPortfolio

The Multi-GenreThe Multi-GenrePortfolioPortfolio

A research-basedA research-basedcollection of writingcollection of writing

Why is Genre important?

• “You can’t just write “writing”; you’ve got to be writing something,--whether it’s a thank-you note or novel or journal entry. And until you know what kind of thing you’re making, you’re going to be silent.”

~Lattimer, 2003

What is theMulti-Genre Portfolio?

• “Each piece in the [portfolio] utilizes a different genre, reveals a facet of the topic, and makes its own point. Conventional devices do not connect the pieces in a multi-genre paper, nor are the pieces always arranged in chronological order. The [portfolio] is instead a collage of writing and artistic expression with an overarching theme that engulfs and informs the reader.”

~Allen, 2001

Multi-GenrePortfolio Objectives

• Students will learn to• Conduct library and internet

research• Read analytically from a variety of

sources• Write and revise in multiple genres

for multiple purposes

Objectives continued• Self-evaluate• Use technology• Think and problem-solve with peers and

independently• Think creatively by integrating the arts

with their research• Organize time• Use multiple intelligences and

divergent thinking skills (Allen)

Strategies for choosinga topic: Cubing

• Describe It —How would you describe the issue/topic (color, shape, size?)

• Compare It —It’s sort of like…(what is it similar to? What is it different from?

• Associate It —How does the topic connect to other issues/subjects (what does it make you think of?)

Cubing Continued:• Analyze It —How would you break it

into smaller parts (How is it made or what is it composed of?)

• Apply It —How does it help you understand other topics or issues (how can it be used?)

• Argue for/Against it —Take a stand and support it.