Often times, tasks seem a lot harder to follow through with when there are requirements and a lack of freedom.  Essay writing is very frequently one of these tasks.

Whether it is a research paper, or analytical essay, many students do not particularly love to write it.

Teachers will often list possible essay topics for their students to write about.  No matter the subject, students feel more comfortable writing about their interests.

A typical high school student would not leisurely write an analytical paper on one of Shakespeare’s plays.  However, through class discussions, some interest or inspiration in the matter may spark within students’ minds.

From this interest, writing an essay pertaining to that topic is easier as it applies to that individual’s opinion and original thoughts.

“I always let my students choose their essay topics, but I do have to approve it.  It’s so much easier for a kid to write about something they want to write about and analyze than something that I tell them to write about.  Plus, the writing is always better when the student chooses,” said English teacher Ms. Mills.

Intellectual excitement may be limited by bland essay topics.

Allowing a student to expand their interest in the matter may even inspire them to continue that interest.

“I think that teachers should encourage more creative writing in essay writing.  It is important because creative writing inspires students to become curious, engaged, and interested in the world around and within them,” said English teacher Ms. Jennifer Ariel.

Many agree that they become more interested in a subject when they are free to have an opinionated input and write what they want.  Personal interest makes writing stronger.

“Honestly, it’s a lot easier for me to write when I get to choose what to write about.  An essay shouldn’t be something I really dread.  I should want to learn more and want to invest myself in that topic.  I think teachers should allow students to choose to write what they want to rather than telling them what to write about,” said sophomore Bari Cohen.

Overall, teachers should encourage more freedom and creativity in writing.

The final product is usually stronger and better written when written from a point of interest.

English teachers should help and encourage students to channel their creativity and interest in the language arts, not make assignments drudging tasks that a student lacks the desire to complete.

Complettion of an assignment is often a specific requirement set by the teacher: whether it is a certain number of paragraphs or recommended word count.

This further emphasizes the feeling of restriction and regulation.

These sentiments make students feel like their thoughts are limited.

Also, the threat of a grade can result in “writers block,” having so much stress to write a strong piece.

This stress can be further releaved when there is more freedom in writing and allowing students to let their thoughts and words flow.