Open Books :: Programs - Adventures In Creative Writing Field Trips

Adventures in Creative Writing Field Trips are unforgettable 2-hour experiences designed to help young people develop their writing skills in meaningful and creative ways. At our colorful literacy center, students write and read as a whole group, in small groups, and as individuals, working with our friendly, supportive writing coaches. They read sample work aloud, discuss it as a group, and write their own prose or poetry. At the end of the session, those who wish to share their work read aloud in front of the class to enthusiastic applause. (And just ask any past participant about the joy of wearing The Pencil Costume!)

Thank you for what you taught me. Now every time I write or read a story I think of you guys. Thank you also for giving us the blank books. Overall, thank you for brightening up my life.

- Kori, 7th Grade

I really had a good time that day. I felt like I really had a career in writing stories. I wish I can come back because I wrote like I never did before. Thank you again for all your help.

- Maria, 7th Grade

A good day was that I came to Open Books, and I’m here having fun. I’m having fun because people are reading and getting good at reading.

- Shontrail, 8th Grade

Thank you for helping us find how we can be such good writers. I also would like to thank you all for letting us go expressing ourselves in writing. I learned a lot at Open Books. I learned that when you read, you read with feeling.

- Pierce, 7th Grade

I'm so appreciative of how you invited the 7th grade to Open Books. I am thankful for what you have given to us. You have taught me and my class the importance of how we write and read books. Thank you and I hope I can see you all again.

- JaQuese, 7th Grade

Thank you Open Books for: Letting us have fun. Letting us past the door. Allowing me to express myself. Telling us that a sad, bad, and happy, crazy can bring the good out of us. Letting me write about something and not being embarrassed.

- Fantasia, 7th Grade

This was a great opportunity to complement this week's launch of the writing workshop for my class. My students were able to see other adults interested in what they had to write, coaching them through one of the hardest subjects, writing. I'm excited my class was included in the Open Books program. Seeing my students engaged in writing, to go further; excited about writing is a great moment for any teacher. Thank for your efforts and vision.

- CPS Teacher

I wish we had more time. This field trip was well worth the time.

- CPS Teacher

What a great program. It is not often that our students get to have their own writing coach. This really helps the students to write.

- CPS Teacher

Thank you for hosting a field trip for my 8th grade students. The program exceeded any of my expectations. I know the students enjoyed the experience as much as I did.

- CPS Teacher

Thank you for giving us the stories so we can follow up where needed. This has been a very good experience for all the students. All classes have returned feeling it was a good experience. I hope they see beyond the day, how writing is important and how it may serve them.

- CPS Principal

Volunteer For A Field Trip

Be a writing coach for a table of 4th-12th graders!

Requirements:
Open Books Orientation and background check.

Location:
Open Books - Literacy Center
213 W. Institute Pl.
Suite 207

Schedule:
Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays
9:30am - 12noon

Commitment:
Join us for any two field trips (or more!) per month for at least three consecutive months.

Getting Started: Fill out the Volunteer Signup form and attend an orientation and training session. After that, we'll send you the link to the field trips calendar and you can sign yourself up for trips that fit your schedule! Already attended an orientation? Then just contact Ava (azeligson@open-books.org or 312.475.1355 x119) and let her know you want to help!