Nollaig shona daoibh

Today was our last session of 2008. It was a drop-in session for those wanting to chat about their essays or presentations (remember that we will be starting the presentations in the week that we come back).

I've been reading and marking essays and reports over the last week. No teacher or tutor enjoys marking (if they say they do they're probably lying). However I have, genuinely, enjoyed reading them.

I gave some feedback to some students on their essays today. As I said to those who came in, we want you to look upon these pieces of writing as a kind of learning resource. Even better look upon them as a work of art like a painting, a sculpture or a musical composition. We want you to take your time in moulding these pieces into examples of writing that you, as much as us, are happy with. Don't focus so much on merely "getting them finished". Remember that this year is all about the development of your writing, research, reading, talking and listening skills - this development is not something that can, nor should, be rushed.

After Christmas I will give feedback to everyone on their writing pieces. However, I may have to stagger this as I don't want to rush these individual chats either. These individual consultations are important.

The aim is that at the end of the academic year is that each student should end up with a portfolio for Communication which, among other things, will include the final, polished and ready-for-exhibition pieces of writing.

Anyway, enough of that for now.

You have all worked hard this term and deserve a break. Have a good one and see you all in the new year.

Nollaig shona daoibh.

And here's a festive greeting to you all from my son ...