Adult Literacy and "Writing Around Florida"
An Online Writing Activity

WHAT: One purpose of this project is to use Florida’s rich photographic history already available online through the Florida Memory Project to encourage family writing and support literacy. This fun activity will provide authentic writing practice while fostering an appreciation of Florida and the writer's family heritage.

WHO: One audience will be adults interested in Florida history, with an emphasis on those lacking a high school diploma (20 percent of Florida’s adults, according to the 2000 Census). It will benefit those needing to pass the essay section of the GED test and their children.

HOW IT WILL WORK: Adults will go to the Florida Memory Project's "Writing Around Florida" page. Once there, they will be presented a selection of photos based on themes of general interest (food, sports, travel, church, work life, etc.) After choosing a photo, they will be asked questions to prompt a critical thinking/writing exercise. Their replies will be packaged into an attractive printout, which could result in an album of family stories.

OUTCOMES: Florida’s adults will improve their writing skills through an authentic writing activity. Families will learn more about their home state while creating their own “Florida Album” of stories.

For more information about using "Writing Around Florida" with adult and family literacy, contact Sandra Newell by e-mail at snewell@dos.state.fl.us or by phone at 850.245.6624.