Seventh graders invade Writers House
Seventh grade may seem a bit early to begin thinking about college. Not so at the Kelly Writers House.
The Daily Pennsylvanian
December 11, 2000
For the past six weeks, Penn students and staff have worked with seventh graders from West Philadelphia's Lea Elementary School to improve their writing and prepare them for the rigors of college.
On Saturday afternoon, the Lea students demonstrated what they had learned. They performed plays and poems they wrote over the course of the semester for family, friends and tutors.
Through a federally funded program called Gear Up, 18 students worked with a variety of Penn volunteer groups. Gear Up eventually started Write On, a partnership with the Writers House.
"We're trying to keep them on the right track," said Michelle McKinney, who helped organize the Gear Up program in Philadelphia. "The goal is to keep the kids motivated."
The seventh graders worked one-on-one with 16 Penn "coaches."
Sara Coelho, a 2000 College graduate, was one of the coaches. She guided the students through different exercises, including artwork, to inspire their writing skills.
"I wanted them to understand what a pleasure writing can be," Coelho said.
She added that it was important to build friendships with the students in the short time period.
"It was a challenge, but they were really enthusiastic," she said.
In the performances, students showed their enthusiasm.
The program began with a modern rendition of "Little Red Riding Hood." Performing the play with seeming anxiety, the students were encouraged by their Penn coaches.
The show continued with poetry, stories and non-fiction. Each student showcased a piece.
Write On did not follow a regimented curriculum. According to organizers, the goal was to have the Lea students enjoy writing as an extra-curricular activity.
The Penn coaches who participated said they were highly impressed by the students with whom they worked.
"It was surprisingly not difficult," College sophomore Julia Blank said. "They already really liked to write, but we were empowering them."
The seventh graders found the program to be a success as well.
"I wanted to improve more in my writing," seventh grader Shonda Mallory said, adding that she felt close to her coaches and planned to continue writing.
Organizers were hopeful that Write On will aid the students with their future academics.
"I hope we're providing the knowledge, skills and motivation they need," McKinney said. "We want them to have futures of their own making and choosing."