What's included
3 live meetings
2 hrs 15 mins in-class hoursHomework
2-4 hours per week. Students will write a character description.Assessment
After turning their character description in to me, students will receive a certificate of completion and feedback.Class Experience
US Grade 3 - 6
In this class, students will meet 3 times in one week. They will use their imagination to develop a character for a story. First, we will discuss who their favorite story characters are and why. Then students will use a 6 page Character Development Workbook to design the physical traits, backstory, and motivation of their character. They can draw their character's family tree, sketch the neighborhood or imaginary world, and write a monologue. Finally, students will use the information they've put in their worksheets and what they've learned about character development to write a 100 - 300 word character description. In Lesson #3, students will have the opportunity to read their character descriptions to the class. Students should be able to read and write English at a 4th grade level or higher to succeed in this class.
Learning Goals
Students will learn the following:
- Why it is important to develop a character before writing them into a story.
- How to develop the physical characteristics, back story, and motivation of a character.
- What a character monologue is and how to write one.
- Identify and discuss good examples of character descriptions.
- Write their own 100 - 300 word character description.
Other Details
Parental Guidance
Students will be given clear instructions and materials to allow them to complete both homework assignments independently.
Supply List
Students should print out the Character Development Worksheets prior to the first lesson. It is not necessary to print this in color.
1 file available upon enrollment
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Teacher expertise and credentials
2 Degrees
Master's Degree from University of Wisconsin-Stout
Bachelor's Degree from Ashford University
I love working with kids! I have 14 years of teaching experience, and I have taught in both traditional school settings and as a homeschool parent. I am passionate about helping kids at all levels of their reading and writing journey. It's so exciting when I see a student gain confidence as a reader/writer or when I can help a young aspiring writer achieve their dreams.
My writing experience includes writing copy for marketing materials, ghost writing for corporate executives, technical writing, writing newspaper articles, and writing instructions for digital technology applications. Managing a corporate internal newsletter was one of my favorite projects. I created the newsletter design, interviewed and wrote articles about team members, and managed the editing and submission process for all the contributors. As a hobby, I love to write short stories, poetry, and songs. I can't imagine my life without writing.
My education includes a BA in Communications and a Master of Science in Technical and Professional Communication (MSTPC). Because I have completed 2 years of my BA and all of my MS classes online, I am skilled with the various aspects of online learning. I love using what I have learned to help kids become better at reading and writing.
Reviews
Live Group Class
$30
for 3 classes3x per week, 1 week
45 min
Completed by 159 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 8-12
4-9 learners per class