English Composition

Would you like to develop more creativity? Are you often stumped about how to become more creative? This audiobook shows how anyone, even YOU, can become more creative by using freedom of speech. This audiobook guides you through 19 different creative tools so you too can harness the full power of freedom of expression. Don't listen to the naysayers; YOU too can become creative by listening to this audiobook!

With the signature wit and humor that has garnered him legions of fans, Gantos instructs young writers on using their "writing radar" to find story ideas in their own lives. Incorporating his own misadventures as a developing writer, Gantos inspires listeners to build confidence and establish good writing habits as they create and revise their stories. More than just a how-to guide, Writing Radar is a celebration of the power of storytelling and an ode to the characters who - many unwittingly - inspired Gantos' own writing career.

Edgar Allan Poe’s essay, "The Philosophy of Composition", sets forth a theory on good writing. It first appeared in the April 1846 issue of Graham's Magazine, and Poe illustrates his theory on the composition of his poem, "The Raven". The three main elements of his philosophy of composition are length, logical method, and "unity of effect". Poe believed that literary works should be short, claimed that writing is methodical, not spontaneous, and asserted that a work of fiction ought to be written only after the author has decided on the conclusion.

This thoughtfully crafted anthology is perfect for children new to verse and for young poetry fans seeking out new favorites. Explore poetry from a diverse selection of contemporary and historical poets, covering a broad range of topics - from personal subjects like emotions and family, to the wonders of the natural environment. Carefully selected works encourage children to see the poetry in everything and to embrace the beauty of their everyday lives.

Creativity is a gift shared by all, yet most of us have been led to believe that if we are not starving artists, musicians, or writers, then creative thinking is not something we are capable of. This just isn't true and to prove it I've brought together some of the best methods to trigger and retain that creative spark within.

Hyperbole (HIGH-purr-buh-lee) are groups of words that exaggerate to make a point. If you say I have a ton of work, you don’t really have 2,000 pounds of work. You overstate to make the point that you have lots of work to do. See if you can guess the meaning of these hyperbole before you listen for possible answers. There can be many other possible answers for them that are not stated.

When cousins Mellie and Dennis decide to get a cat, they consider carefully what breed would be best for each family. For example, Mellie wants a cat that pounces, but Dennis wants a lazy cat, like his lazy dog, Clark Kent. Mellie wants a lap cat, but Dennis just wants a warm body beside him. They consider different cat personalities, family situations, and personal preferences.

When cousins Dennis and Mellie decide to get a dog, they consider carefully what breed would be best for each family. For example, Dennis wants a big dog, but Mellie wants tiny. He has no other pets, but she has other pets that a dog must get along with. They consider different dog personalities, family situations, and personal preferences. Dennis writes an opinion essay for his teacher, Mrs. Shirky. But will his essay convince his parents to get the dog of his dreams?