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Composition teachers can reconcile the conflict between effective writing instruction and educational reform mandates by making timed writing assignments part of the writing process.

While active learning strategies enable students to grasp important concepts, they also help students become enthusiastic and confident writers and interpreters of literature.

Argues that introducing students to literary criticism while introducing them to literature boosts their confidence and abilities to analyze literature, and increases their interest in discussing it. Describes how the author, in her college-level introductory literature course, used Shel Silverstein’s “The Giving Tree” (a children’s book) to introduce literary criticism, increase enthusiasm for literature, and build confidence in making meaning.