UNLOCKED MEMORIES:
Writing the Story of Your Life
with ALEC GILL and AUDREY DUNNE
COURSE:
C.V. (max 20 words)
ALEC GILL is an author, psychologist and folk historian who has tutored a
reminiscence course at Hull University for several years.
THE COURSE AIMS TO / BOOKLET INTRODUCTION:
"Some day I'm gonna write, the story of my life". How many times has that
popular song run through your head, you agreed with the sentiment, but did nothing about
it? This special weekend writing course is designed to get you to put pen to paper.
Everyone has a book inside trying to get out! Or, if you already have a body of writing,
the course can provide you with a new direction. Class feedback - constructive and
friendly - will be central to the process of writing about your life. The course also
offers the opportunity to read out one's work to an appreciative audience. The beauty of
the weekend is that students also learn from each other. It is therapeutic to review one's
life.
IT IS FOR:
This course is for people who want to reflect upon their life and wish to leave a
written record of their achievements for posterity. Indeed, your memories are part of your
family's rich heritage. Why not even suggest that your family treat you to this
reminiscence writing weekend? Whatever is written will be a fund of knowledge about their
ancestors. The ink-well of your treasured memories awaits your poised pen!
DURING THE COURSE:
The nine sessions will include the following topics:
GETTING TO KNOW YOU:
Introduction to each other and the course.
JOT DOWN MEMORY LANE:
Where and when do you write? The Stages of your Life.
BEGINNING, MIDDLE & END:
Order out of chaos. Form and Content.
AFTERNOON WRITING TIME:
Put pen to paper
FRIENDLY FEEDBACK:
Students read work out.
HAPPY-go-LUCKY ENGLISH:
Video = Our universal language.
WRITING SKILLS:
Basic grammar, common errors, etc.
FAMILY LIFE & SOCIAL HISTORY:
Writing in wider context.
WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE?
Future prospects.
BY THE END OF THE COURSE:
Each student should have:
 | * An outline of keywords stating the major stages of life: people, places, objects, etc. |
| * Begun a clearly written body of work which highlights your past life. |
| * Assessed own written work in an objective manner - able to stand back and look at your writing in a detached way. |
| * Distinguished between the 'form' and 'content' of writing. |
| * Demonstrated an improvement in understanding of grammar, punctuation and syntax of a sentence. |
| * Gained an ability to give and take constructive criticism in a friendly atmosphere. |
| * Demonstrated an increase in confidence when reading out your work to the group. |
| * Recognized your past life within a broader framework of local folk and national social history. |
| * An awareness of the diversity of the English language as a unique means of communicating. |
| * Exchanged ideas within the class context through discussion. |
PLEASE BRING:
Writing pad/paper, pens, clip-board and, if you wish,
a. A sample of family photographs
b. Small artifacts, memorabilia, etc.
BUT IT IS ADVISABLE that you do not bring original items which have great
sentimental value. Good laser copies are recommended and at a reasonable cost nowadays.