Trimester #1

Instructor:  Chantel Figueroa, Chantelf@school-one.org

Course Overview:

In this class, we will explore the concept of world-building, diving into the creation of immersive worlds through short fiction. These initial short pieces can later be expanded into longer works. Before sending your protagonist on their adventure, you’ll first delve into the world they come from and where they are traveling to.

We will study the fundamental aspects of world-building and the techniques that make fictional worlds feel real and engaging. Additionally, we will focus on radical revision, using peer review and feedback to significantly improve and transform your writing.

*All assignments can be found on Google Classrooms, where homework will be submitted.

Week 1: Introduction to Creative Writing 

• Homework: Think about what you would like to write for your Short Story

Week 2: Elements of a Story and World-Building

• Write a 2-4 page story outline including characters, setting, plot, conflict, and theme along with a descriptive focus on setting. (To be submitted in Google Classroom)

Week 3: Developing Characters

• Write interviews based on character sheets previously made (minimum 2 characters 1-2 pages per character)  (To be submitted in Google Classroom)

Week 4: Plot Development and Peer Review

• Write 4-10 pages of your story and submit on Google Classroom for in class small group Peer Review. (To be submitted in Google Classroom) *Students will need to bring multiple physical copies of their story to share within their groups which will be announced prior to the class in Google Classroom.

Week 5: Revising and Editing 

• Revise your story and submit both the original and revised versions. (To be submitted in Google Classroom)

Week 6: Personal Voice and Style 

• Write a reflective piece on your writing style (1-2 pages). (To be submitted in Google Classroom)

Week 7: Outside Book Reading Assignment

• Write 1-2 pages about the book you are reading along with what elements the author uses that you would like to incorporate into your own writing. (To be submitted in Google Classroom)

Week 8: Independent Writing

• Continue writing in and outside of class

Week 9: Class Peer Review Day 1

• Submit short stories in Google Classroom to be peer reviewed by the whole class (Each student will be assigned Day 1 or Day 2 to be sharing their work)

Week 10: Class Peer Review Day 2

• Submit short stories in Google Classroom to be peer reviewed by the whole class (Each student will be assigned Day 1 or Day 2 to be sharing their work)

Week 11: Revising and Editing

• Polishing and Editing completed short stories (at home and in class)

Week 12: Final Projects and Presentations 

• Write a self-assessment of your progress and what you’ve learned along with your short story.