Writing Groups

Writing Groups are an UCWbL service in which a Writing Center Tutor facilitates a review and discussion of works-in-progress with a group of 3 or more writers. These 90-minute meetings are scheduled on a weekly or biweekly basis, and they are designed to provide support and feedback for specific fields of writing. Each session usually combines discussion and feedback, although the focus is determined by the writers' needs, and the meeting's agenda is developed collaboratively by the facilitator(s) and writers.

Writers seek or join Writing Groups for a variety of reasons:

• Accountability—Writing Groups give writers a deadline and motivation to write
• Feedback—Writing Groups provide reassurance, suggestions, and recommendations for revision
• Guidance—Writing Groups can help writers become familiar with new genres, reader's needs, and reader's expectations
• Brainstorming—Writing Groups help writers generate and develop ideas
• Networking—Writing Groups provide a community for people with like-minded interests
• Inspiration—Writing Groups help people who are looking for different perspectives and new ideas

How Writing Groups Appointments Work

The UCWbL provides space and facilitator(s) for the group, and Writing Groups can be scheduled to meet at the Loop or Lincoln Park Campus or online, depending on the group. College-specific Writing Groups may also choose to meet in a space within their college.