Creative Writing Course by Hollywood Writer!
Creative writing class taught by former Warner Bros, OWN, and Hulu writer. In this eight week creative writing class, students will engage in a fun and interactive course designed to cultivate their storytelling acumen.
New on Outschool
What's included
8 live meetings
12 in-class hoursAssignments
2-4 hours per week. Students will receive weekly relevant creative writing assignments, geared toward the successful completion of their creative writing project, and will receive regular notes and feedback from the highly skilled writing instructor.Certificate of Completion
Students will receive a formal certificate of completion.Class Experience
US Grade 7 - 12
Beginner - Advanced Level
What Will Be Taught? In this class, you will learn the fundamentals of creative writing, including: Character Development: Creating memorable and relatable characters. Plot Structure: Understanding how to craft compelling narratives. Setting and Description: Bringing your stories to life with vivid imagery. Dialogue: Writing realistic conversations that engage readers. Poetry and Prose: Exploring different forms and styles of writing. Topics Covered: Throughout the semester, we will cover a variety of topics, including: The writing process: brainstorming, drafting, revising, and editing. Genres: fiction, poetry, and creative non-fiction. Writing prompts and exercises to spark creativity. Analyzing and critiquing works by established authors. The importance of voice and style in writing. Class Structure: Our class will be structured around a combination of instruction and hands-on practice. Each session will typically include: Mini-Lessons: Focused lessons on specific writing techniques. Writing Workshops: Time for you to write and share your work. Peer Reviews: Constructive feedback sessions with classmates. Guest Speakers: Opportunities to hear from published authors. Teaching Style: My teaching style is interactive and supportive. I believe that creativity flourishes in a collaborative environment, so I encourage open dialogue and sharing of ideas. Expect a mix of the following: Lectures: Brief introductions to key concepts. Games and Activities: Fun exercises to unleash your creativity. Slides and Visual Aids: Engaging presentations to illustrate techniques. Video Clips: Short films or readings to inspire and analyze. Interaction and Engagement You will have ample opportunities to interact with me and your peers. Expect: Group Discussions: Sharing ideas and feedback in a safe space. Writing Challenges: Fun, timed prompts to boost creativity. One-on-One Feedback: Personalized guidance on your writing projects. Class Projects: Collaborative storytelling exercises to foster teamwork. Join me in this exciting journey of self-expression and creativity! Let’s unlock your potential as a writer together.
Learning Goals
Students will explore various writing styles and techniques to cultivate their unique voice. They will engage in exercises that encourage self-expression and experimentation, culminating in a portfolio of original works that reflect their individual styleStudents will learn the fundamentals of narrative structure, including elements such as plot, character development, and setting. Through analyzing examples from published works, they will apply these concepts to their own writing.
Syllabus
8 Lessons
over 8 WeeksLesson 1:
Week 1: Introduction to Creative Writing
Topics:
What is creative writing?
Overview of genres: fiction, poetry, drama, and creative nonfiction.
Activities:
Icebreaker: Share a favorite book or author.
Writing prompt: Describe a vivid memory in 200 words. 90 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Week 2: Character Development
Topics:
Creating memorable characters.
Understanding character arcs and motivations.
Activities:
Character sketch assignment.
Peer feedback session. 90 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Week 3: Setting and World-Building
Topics:
Importance of setting in storytelling.
Techniques for crafting immersive worlds.
Activities:
Write a descriptive piece focusing on setting.
Group discussion on different settings in literature. 90 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Week 4: Plot Structure
Topics:
Elements of plot: exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, resolution.
Different narrative structures (e.g., linear, non-linear).
Activities:
Create a plot outline for a short story.
Workshop: Share and refine plot ideas. 90 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Pre-Requisites
Students should have an interest in storytelling and basic writing skills in order to participate in this online learning class.
Supply List
Students will need access to a working computer and stable wifi signal.
Language of Instruction
English (Level: A1)
Joined August, 2024
New on Outschool
Teacher expertise and credentials
Devan Renea is a WGA writer. She holds an MFA in creative writing, a bachelor’s degree in film, and a GradC in education media design & technology. Devan was previously a writer for OWN’s legal drama series, “Delilah”, including the season finale. Devan was also a writer and script coordinator for the critically acclaimed Hulu limited series, “Mike”, starring Moonlight’s Trevante Rhodes. Devan’s other writing credits include work on the NAACP award-winning series “Queen Sugar”, produced by Oprah Winfrey and Ava DuVernay; the Saturn-award winning CW series “Stargirl”; and Freeform’s Teen Choice award-nominated series “Famous in Love”. She is the CEO of Boss Up Productions, a multi-platform production company. Devan is a also Screenwriting Instructor for nonprofit organizations, Kids in the spotlight, Hurston Wright Foundation, and Empowher Institute. She is a regular guest lecturer at both Howard University and Full Sail University, as well as a dedicated online instructor through platforms Varsity Tutors and Native Camp.
Reviews
Live Private Course
$32
weekly or $250 for 8 classes1x per week, 8 weeks
90 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 12-18
