[NIFL-4EFF:1832] RE: prisoners and citizens

From: KUTHFAM@aol.com
Date: Wed Oct 10 2001 - 21:31:22 EDT


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Subject: [NIFL-4EFF:1832] RE: prisoners and citizens
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In a message dated 10/10/2001 7:06:43 PM Eastern Daylight Time, 
jonesk@sosmail.state.mo.us writes:


> I'm sorry I can't close with any success stories, but to have even suggested
> the possibility of the common activities under the community member role map
> just might have opened new ways of thinking,  The activities really are
> spelled out well and rather behaviorally. 
> 

In a jail situation, we have discussed unwritten rules (i.e. keep you nose 
clean and mind your own business)as a community member.  One student 
commented that some people never learn that. True!  It doesn't hurt those who 
know to be refreshed about that idea either.

One lesson I do is an essay writing exercise with the prompt "How have you 
used your time in jail productively?"  Usually everyone initially balks and 
say all they do is play cards and sleep.  I point out that they are sitting 
in my class. There are many other productive activities which the students 
can choose: attending NA or AA meetings; participating in a Life Skills 
program (a 12 step spiritual recovery program); attending church, working in 
the jail as a trusty; exercising reading; playing cards and using critical 
thinking skills, drawing.  

Many of my students write to the judge asking for early release. We talk 
about what the judge does and doesn't want to read in that letter.  We never 
actually write a letter, but at least it give the student ideas to use the 
time productively.  It also give an application of the writing exercise for a 
practical use.

I relate this writing activity to the EFF standard "convey ideas in writing" 
using the components of performance.  I emphasize the importance of staying 
"on topic" (What is the purpose? Who is the audience?) rather than 
complaining and/or telling why they are in this situation.  

I always get good essays, and maybe writing the essay changes behavior.

Millie Kuth
Hamilton City ABLE
Hamilton OH 45011
KUTHFAM@aol.com



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