As an instructor in both settings, one of the main differences I see in the writing expectations of high school vs. college is inquiry. As an AP teacher, I used to have students write to specific prompts. I even trained them in how to write an effective essay quickly. I remember students’ frustration when they received a prompt they didn’t like; it really impressed on me the importance of letting students choose their own writing topics. Not only do students enjoy inquiry-based writing more, I enjoy grading it more!
The struggles for ESL learners…
Time differences between high school & college…
More process work here…
Literature Vs. Writing & Rhetoric (in college we discuss rhetorical situations…current events, politics, social issues, etc.)
Process work required in high school (meticulous outlines, required sentences for paragraphs, forced process work, process work not organic & natural, formulaic/outdated writing expectations….3 point thesis, 5 paragraph essay…all of it seemed unnatural)
Outdated writing “rules” (no first person, no passive voice, no contractions)
Structure and formula in high school writing provides more freedom in choosing your own topic & style.
I was able to “half-ass” in high school in a way I can’t here. Writing wasn’t as serious in high school.
Not focused on grammar/mechanics….
AP prepared me, at least for the terminology and maybe the rigor of college writing
Writing was fluff… given topics… easy grading / Inconsistent grading. Those with challenging teachers prepared them.
-In a sense, there’s no way high school can really prepare you for the expectations of college. They’re two different levels for a reason.
-College…you’re on your own. Intellectual freedom.
-Formula of high school writing (writing rules/5 paragraph/3point thesis)
-Outlines with topic sentences, 3 supporting sentences, and conclusion
-Academic language… (informal tone to formal tone…this was an incredible challenge)
-Not enough emphasis on rhetoric in high school