This in-depth class gives students a chance to delve into elements of story writing in order to develop a strong story. Students will learn about the difference between fiction and nonfiction, creating characters, establishing setting, plotting a story, point or view, conflict, theme, tone and showing not telling. By the time they finish this class, they will have created and developed two stories from start to end.  

Class 1: What is a Story?
Students learn the difference between fiction and nonfiction.

Class 2: Developing Characters
Students developing setting. 

Class 3: Establishing Setting
Students create a detailed setting for their story. 

Class 4: Plotting a Story
Students develop a plot before beginning drafting

Class 5: Drafting
Begin writing your story (story is due for next class)

Class 6: Critique Groups
Students will learn to give and receive feedback in a critique group. 

Class 7: Revision
Learn the ARMS (Add, Remove, Move and Substitute) method.  Then share their story at the end of class.


Class 8: Theme
Students consider what the important elements of their story are. 

Class 9: Tone
Students work on the tone. Is their story going to be funny? serious? action-packed?  

Class 10: Show Don't Tell
Students learn about the importance of showing not telling and begin drafting

Class 11: Drafting
Students draft and take turns meeting with the teacher 1:1 to go over their story or in a breakout room working. Classes will be due the next class.

Class 12: Critique Groups
Students will work in critique groups to get their work looked at

Class 13: Revision Day
Students will edit using the ARMS method, learn to work on word choice and editing.  Then share their stories. 

Class 14: Vocabulary Test
Students are tested on the important words they learned in class such as plot, tone, theme and more