Creating effective writing assignments is topic of next Box Lunch discussion The On Teaching Box Lunch discussion series continues Wednesday, Oct. 11, with a session on “Creating Effective Writing Assignments” from noon to 1 p.m. in the Memorial Room, Memorial Union. Led by Writing Center Director Kim Crowley, the discussion will center on creating writing assignments that help students understand what's expected in their papers, which can also help ease some of the pressure on instructors when it comes to grading those projects. Student writers generally like having some freedom in their assignments, but they get nervous when they're not sure of the guidelines and expectations. Too many questions on an assignment can seem like a list that needs to be followed. Not enough information can leave writers -- especially inexperienced ones -- feeling frustrated. Providing details about things like page length, documentation styles, and crucial elements of a successful paper can help lessen students' anxiety about a writing assignment. Attendees are welcome to bring writing assignments they're working on or successful assignments they'd like to share with the group. To register and reserve a free box lunch, call Jana Hollands at 777-4998 by noon Monday, Oct. 9. -- Libby Rankin, Director, Office of Instructional Development, libby_rankin@und.nodak.edu, 777-4233