Creative Writing! Imagination,Voice, and Imagery!
Designed to be taken more than 1 time. Learners create a story based on topics offered, or 1 of their own, crossing genres using the full writing process in an encouraging atmosphere. New topics have been added . #academic
Mike P
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(656)
What's included
3 live meetings
2 hrs 45 mins in-class hoursHomework
2-4 hours per week. Working on the writing piece between class meetings will be required to allow each meeting to move onto the next level of the project.Grading
includedClass Experience
US Grade 4 - 7
In this creative writing class, students will be working on Google Docs , if possible,or other computer writing program, , to write a fictional story of approximately 1 to 3 pages, and perhaps longer. This class is based on a fun, happy atmosphere where learners will be encouraged to write and create pieces that will astound them with the details, depth, voice, and quality. Many story prompts will be given at the start of the class, or learners can use an idea of their own once discussed with instructor, and students will be writing off the top of their heads and, as a result, this will not be a class of extensive brainstorming, but rather starting in on the first draft. Each class time will include mini-lessons on specific skills focused on for that piece. Learners will be asked to meet one additional 30 minutes , at the end of class (if needed based on size of class) to edit and revise with the instructor through Zoom by sharing the work. If that time is needed, it is included in the original cost. Many new topics have recently been added as the class is intended to be taken more than one time. Skills encouraged include -staying on the topic, -writing in an active voice, and specifically choosing strong, precise verbs, adjectives, and adverbs. -Using some dialogue ( not major amounts that take away from description) in correct form to add depth to the characters. -embellishment to make the events and character descriptions grab the reader -Figurative language- similes,metaphors, personification, alliteration, onomatopoeia and more -Using some dialogue in correct form to add depth to the characters. - -conflicts-One character vs. character conflict, one character vs. self conflict, - strongest, precise vocabulary, every word counts!! - very strong ending like the ending of a movie that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Learning Goals
Students will gain skills and improve in many aspects of creative writing including
Week One: Staying on topic and writing in active voice with emotion and specific word choices.
Week Two: Using Figurative Language and powerful description, point of view, specific settings
Week Three: Adjectives, adverbs, conflicts, and literary elements, climax, resolution, voice
During the class and individual meeting times, proper editing and revision skills will be practiced.
Other Details
Supply List
Packet sent by teacher ahead of time Two print outs from Google or elsewhere - Ways to Say Said without using Said and a Character Trait list any novel so it can be used as an example when writing dialogue
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Sources
Google Docs
Please also go on Google ahead of class and find / print for class two items: a list of character traits and " Ways to Say Said Without Saying Said."
An instructional pack will be sent to each student several days before class.
Teacher expertise and credentials
2 Degrees
Master's Degree in Education from The College of St. Rose
Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Union College
There is nothing more exciting than when you see a student think deeply, question ideas, share a new thought, or explore character’s actions/ decisions or a quote or a purpose the author had when writing a novel and then connect the information to learner’s own story in life. Helping students reach their full potential, and beyond, in a setting that is safe, exciting, creative and funny is what teaching is all about to me. The climate has to be one that is free from bullying, pressure, and negative interactions and, instead, is one that students can’t wait to get to as they know the time in that class will be rewarding, creative, stimulating, and allow them to be who they really are and share what they want to share. There is nothing more exciting, as a teacher, then when that light bulb illuminates and a student feels confident to share and take an idea, quote, author’s purpose or decision from a book and see how it can affect real life or when a learner sees their full potential, in the written word they create.
We can make literature, come alive in a really fun, fast-paced active discussion filled atmosphere.
My background professionally is having taught third grade, fifth grade, and Sixth grade language arts for 33 years with a background in psychology, elementary education, school administration and an extensive background in overnight camping.My favorite teaching topics include writing poetry, creative and nonfiction writing, and reading/sharing outstanding literature with discussions that bring critical thinking skills and life lessons to the students. I am excited to bring this teaching to an environment that is bully free with motivated students in a small group setting.I always look forward to reading my students work as I see such brilliance in people of this age.
I can be found in the upstate NY, most often being out on the lake in my boat from spring to fall (I love being on water!), playing guitar and singing, collecting Pez, reading , cooking and baking, volunteering in the community as often as I can to make things better for others, and spending lots of time with Derby, the wonder dog, my amazingly bright and talented rescue dog who undoubtably will make visits into the virtual classroom. I also enjoy bike riding, yoga, and meditation. Most importantly, I place great emphasis on finding ways, small and big ways, that will allow my students and myself to make our mark in this world and make it a better place for others. The small ways are most often the best ways and I believe students are brilliant people who can absolutely change the world.Reviews
Live Group Class
$68
for 3 classes3x per week, 1 week
55 min
Completed by 43 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 9-13
1-4 learners per class
