Mina P. Shaughnessy: Her Life and Work

by Jane Maher

Book Overview

Even before the publication of her pioneering work, Errors and Expectations, Mina P. Shaughnessy was recognized as the leading figure in the field of basic writing and as a devoted advocate of Open Admissions. Her career at City College and the CUNY Instructional Resource Center spanned the turbulent years of Open Admissions, and throughout the late sixties and seventies she worked with a commitment and intensity to her students that was unparalleled...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0814150292
• ISBN13: 9780814150290
• Release Date: February 1997
• Publisher: National Council of Teachers of English (Ncte
• Length: 331 Pages
• Weight: 1.20 lbs.
• Dimensions: 6.2" x 9.2"

Customer Reviews

The "Countess" of Basic Writing

Beginning with Shaughnessy's childhood, Maher opens her story with how the family life of an immigrant miner's daughter tempered her spirit. Maher thoroughly documents the career of a pioneer in the field of basic writing. Maher's treatment was detailed and compassionate, revealing struggles rarely seen except by close companions. Through the use of excerpts from Shaughnessy's own letters and journal, the reader is treated to the momentary and well-earned celebrations and the constant, almost overwhelming struggle of her daily fight. It is inspiring and at the same time disheartening. One individual changed so much by her sheer will and determination. However, some of the elitist inhabitants of the ivory tower still lord over those who were not so fortunate in their early education.This book is an excellent place for new teachers to begin their education in teaching.