***Due to changes in my schedule, all sections of this class will end after the week of January 8th. Depending on my summer schedule, I may be able to bring this class back then.***

CLASS DESCRIPTION
In this ongoing class, high school students will have the opportunity to learn creative writing tips, will be given time to write in class, and then will be asked to share their work with their peers and teacher to receive valuable feedback. This writing club will function in a workshop model, where we praise and kindly critique the work of peers. It is also a laid-back environment for students who want to have dedicated time to write each week and to give and receive feedback to/from their peers, while also getting a chance to learn creative writing tips each week (see bottom of class experience section).

The class will begin with goal setting for our time together. Students will go around and share their goals for the class session. This will take no more than 3 minutes.

After we have set goals, I will give students a writing tip, whether it be about characters, setting, plot, voice, etc. This usually takes about 5 or so minutes. I will use a slideshow so visual learners can easily follow along. Plus, it will give students an opportunity to take notes if they would like to (this is not required). Note: I do cycle through and repeat my tips. They are mainly a supplement to our time, sort of like an appetizer. Just because you have had a certain appetizer before does not mean you would not order it again in the future. Ultimately, the writing time and peer review are our main courses. However, students who have been with me for the long haul (1-2+ years) find them to be timely and great reminders for their own writing.

Next, I will provide students with 25-35 minutes to write in class. In my experience as a writer, I often find myself making excuses about not having time to write when in reality, I just do not always make time for it. By providing writing time in class, it forces students to make time to write. Students can work on their own writing projects, or they can use a creative writing prompt I provide for the writing time.

The last 15 minutes will be spent completing peer reviews on what was just written, as well as personally reflecting on what they were able to achieve during this time.

Ultimately, this is a laid-back, yet extremely helpful, creative writing club for those passionate about or interested in creative writing. All high school writers, whether novice or seasoned, are welcome!

TOPICS FOR CREATIVE WRITING TIP TIME

Week of September 18th - Narration
Week of September 25th - Rhythm
Week of October 2nd - Figurative Language 
Week of October 9th - Theme 
Week of October 16th - Writer's Block 
Week of October 23rd - Beginnings
Week of October 30th - Middles
Week of November 6th - Endings
Week of November 13th - Conflict
Week of November 20th - Characters (No class on Thursday due to Thanksgiving (US))
Week of November 27th - Setting
Week of December 4th - Show vs. Tell
Week of December 11th - Dialogue
Week of December 18th - Movement
Week of December 25th - Tone (No class on Monday due to Christmas)
Week of January 1st - Voice (No class on Monday due to New Year's Day)
Week of January 8th -  Detail (Final week of this class until summer*)

*Due to changes in my schedule, all sections of this class will end after the week of January 8th. Depending on my summer schedule, I may be able to bring this class back then.