In this 8 week summer camp, students ages 8-13 (grades 3-6) will be shown a surprise writing prompt, image, video, or sound with an example to use as inspiration while writing. Learners will be given 10-20 minutes to write a creative 7-14 sentence response (and draw a picture if time allows) which they can share with the group at the end of class.

Topics- topics vary but may include: parts of speech (adjectives, verbs, adverbs, etc.), figurative language (similes, metaphors, personification, etc.), characters, setting, plot, poetry, problem and solution, writing great first sentences and story endings, and a variety of other writing topics. 

***Each day students will be presented with a different writing prompt to to help spark their imagination. They may listen to a short piece of music, examine an image or artwork, read an exciting scenario, and more. Students will then be given time to write a short piece inspired by what they have read/seen/heard. This may include, a story, short scene, a character, a place, an image, a feeling, a memory, etc.

 Class Structure:

Introduction- during introductions we will take a few moments to tell each other our names and one fun fact about ourselves. (We will only introduce ourselves and do the fun fact during the initial class or if a new learner joins. ) After introductions will go over classroom rules. Next, we will cover the "creative writing tip" of the day and engage in giving examples of the tip. After our tip, learners will be introduced to the topic of the day and the target goal. (For example, the topic could be about a magical tree house and the target goal could be to use 2 similes when writing about given topic. The meaning of a simile and an example would be provided.) We will then review the provided example.

Brainstorming- during brainstorming learners are able to ask questions about the topic and target of the day and discuss ideas openly with the teacher and their peers before starting their independent writings. 

Independent Writing- Learners are given 15 to 20 minutes to work on their stories and to write as much as the can during this allotted time. It's perfectly fine if a learner isn't completely finished when time is up. During this independent writing time learners will be muted and are allowed to turn their cameras off.  (learners are able to download and print lined writing paper with a section for drawing but it is not mandatory. Learners can simply use a notebook as well.) 

Sharing time- during sharing time learners will read their stories aloud. The teacher and peers will offer positive comments, feedback, emojis, and/or reactions to each other. 

*Things to Note*

-This class does not focus on helping students improve spelling, grammar, punctuation, capitalization, or other writing mechanics. 

-No previous creative writing experience is necessary for this camp. 

-Please ensure learners know how to mute + unmute themselves.

-Water is allowed in all of my classes. Having a water bottle nearby is encouraged. 

-having a dictionary and thesaurus is encouraged but not mandatory. Using sites such as thesaurus.com is encouraged during independent writing.