Reading 1984 Essays

It is a teacher's hope to be able to read essays that her students wrote and be impressed.  And it finally happened this time. The stack of essays on George Orwell's 1984 has been the best that I have read this year. My AP students are finally getting how to write an analytical essay, it seems. Their ideas were innovative and thoughtful. I think it has a lot to do with how much they enjoy the book. Most of them were able to make a connection between the book and the real life. I am so very happy for them blossom as competent and college-ready writers. Now if only my 10th graders can do the same....