Date of Award
8-2010
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
College/School
College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Department/Program
English
Thesis Sponsor/Dissertation Chair/Project Chair
Emily Isaacs
Committee Member
Jessica Restaino
Committee Member
Laura Nicosia
Abstract
In this thesis, I examine the writing pedagogy known as identity negotiation. I focus specifically on the models Robert E. Brooke presents in his book, Writing and Sense of Self: Identity Negotiation in Writing Workshops, and in several essays. I also review later adaptations of this theory by such writers as Zan Goncalves, Nancy Welch, Lad Tobin and Bronwyn Williams. Finally, I will discuss practical applications of identity theory in the STRUGGLE program in Pittsburgh and in programs that are affiliated with the National Writing Project.
Throughout, I analyze and affirm Brooke’s argument that identity negotiation is so woven into human psychological growth that it ought to be emphasized in writing instruction. I agree with the author’s contention that teaching writing as a form of identity negotiation enhances instruction and increases the chances of that instruction’s success. I will discuss various further benefits that writing students will derive from identity negotiation strategy.
File Format
Recommended Citation
Sillery, Robert R., "A Case of Identity" (2010). Theses, Dissertations and Culminating Projects. 981.
https://digitalcommons.montclair.edu/etd/981