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Creative Writing Workshop: Crafting a Short Story

In this writing workshop, learners will complete the steps needed to write and draft a short story. This course is great for budding writers!
Teacher Jade's Writing Academy
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:
(1,576)
Star Educator
Class
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What's included

5 live meetings
4 hrs 35 mins in-class hours
Assignments
4+ hours per week. 3-6 throughout the class
Projects
1-2 throughout the class
Assessment
1-2 throughout the class

Class Experience

US Grade 9 - 12
Beginner - Advanced Level
In this engaging short story writing workshop, learners will have the opportunity to draft and revise their very own short story.   Over the course of one week, students will dive into the fundamental elements of crafting compelling narratives, from developing vibrant characters and settings to crafting gripping plots and conflicts. 

Throughout the workshop, students will learn:
- The essential components of a story, including plot, characters, setting, conflict, and resolution.
- Techniques for character development, such as physical descriptions, personality traits, and motivations.
- Strategies for building vivid settings using sensory details to immerse readers in their stories.
- The structure of a plot, including exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution.
- Different types of conflict and how to effectively incorporate them into their narratives.
- Tips for effective storytelling, including dialogue, pacing, and descriptive language.
- The importance of editing and revision in the writing process to polish their stories to perfection.

Each class will be structured around a specific theme and lecture (30 minutes).
Students will have in class time to work on the assignment and ask questions/share ideas (25 minutes).

Students will have the opportunity to brainstorm story ideas, outline their plots, write their first drafts, and receive feedback, from both the instructor and their peers, to refine their stories in class as well as through submissions.


By the end of the workshop, students will have completed their own original short stories.
Learning Goals
Understanding Story Elements: Students will learn to identify and understand the essential elements of a story, including plot, characters, setting, conflict, and resolution in creating a well-rounded narrative.
Character Development: Students will develop skills in creating compelling and relatable characters by learning techniques such as physical descriptions, personality traits, and motivations. They will understand the importance of character depth.
learning goal

Syllabus

5 Lessons
over 1 Week
Lesson 1:
Introduction to Story Elements
 Students will learn the essential components of a story: plot, characters, setting, conflict, and resolution. This foundation prepares students to create captivating narratives. 
55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Developing Characters and Setting
 This module guides students in creating dynamic characters and immersive settings using sensory details, physical descriptions, and personality traits to deepen their storytelling. 
55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Crafting Plot and Conflict
 Students will outline a story arc, including exposition, climax, and resolution. They’ll explore different types of conflict and learn to integrate them to keep readers engaged. 
55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Writing the Story
 This class focuses on drafting techniques, including dialogue, pacing, and descriptive language. Students will bring all story elements together to complete their first draft. 
55 mins online live lesson

Other Details

Learning Needs
Teaching methods will incorporate visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning styles. Students will work in small groups to facilitate peer interaction. Visual aids and written outlines will be used to help students understand assignments.
Supply List
Graphic organizers will be provided by the instructor.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined November, 2017
4.9
1576reviews
Star Educator
Profile
Teacher expertise and credentials
Illinois Teaching Certificate in Elementary Education
Saarah Na’Allah
Master's Degree in Education from University of Minnesota
(Teacher) Jade W. | M.Ed. & Licensed Instructor
Bachelor's Degree in History from University of Minnesota
(Teacher) Jade W. | M.Ed. & Licensed Instructor
Welcome to Teacher Jade’s Writing Academy, where we ignite the love for writing in young minds! Our formal essay writing and creative writing courses are tailor-made for youth ages 8-18, delivered by exceptional teachers fueled by a genuine passion for nurturing young writers.

𝗪𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝘀 - Good for use through December 31st, 2024
Any class under $25 use coupon code --> jadeswinter5 --> receive $5 off
Any class over $25, use coupon code --> jadeswinter1515 --> receive $15 off
Any semester or yearlong class, use coupon code --> jadeswinter25 --> receive $25 off

At our Academy, inclusivity is at the heart of our ethos. Our classrooms are welcoming spaces that celebrate diversity in all its forms—religious, political, cultural, socioeconomic, racial, ethnic, gender, sexuality, or nationality. We believe in fostering an environment where respect thrives, ensuring that every learner feels valued and heard in class and through their writing.

Our courses go beyond the traditional approach, offering purposeful writing that prepares youth for formal essay writing, creative expression, and real-world writing challenges. Through constructive feedback, we guide and encourage young writers to enhance their reading and writing skills through assignments that help boost confidence.

Join Teacher Jade’s Writing Academy, where the art of writing, even for the most reluctant writers, becomes enjoyable and there is limitless self-expression for your child.  

Should your child require any accommodations or modifications to enhance their learning experience, please don't hesitate to reach out. We understand that each young writer is unique, and we are committed to finding the best fit for every learner.

Here is a link to a 𝗙𝗥𝗘𝗘 supplementary Grammar Workbook --> https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/8u9u0ja549oqty6la1dtz/Grammar-Workbook-OS.pdf?rlkey=k4ttcz0chi2a21g1v2uzefo0k&dl=0

𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐬


𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗝𝗮𝗱𝗲 (𝗙𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿):
I started my path to teaching in college when I volunteered with AmeriCorps.  I went on to teach in traditional public schools after I completed my M.Ed and received my teaching license, but I quickly learned the school environment was not the ideal setting for myself or my child.  That is when I transitioned to homeschooling and teaching online. I have been teaching writing classes for over fifteen years.  My primary objective in each class is to help the learners feel comfortable and gain confidence in their writing.  My teaching style is learner-centered, meaning I focus on what each student needs and how they learn best. I believe students are more engaged when the material connects with their personal interests, so I often try to relate lessons to real-world topics they’re curious about.  My role is more of a guide that encourages open discussion, letting students share their ideas and opinions, which helps them feel more involved in their learning. This approach doesn’t just help with understanding the material—it builds confidence and critical thinking skills that students can use beyond the classroom.


𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗗𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗲 (𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗵 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿):
Hello, I'm Teacher Danielle. I have been an English classroom teacher in the public school system for 15 years (6th grade through 12th grade), an online teacher for over two years, and have helped countless students, from elementary school through college, with various aspects of the writing process. With a B.A. in English Literature, I enjoy both reading and writing - and I love sharing those passions with my students. Outside of class, I find joy in anything active outdoors and traveling around the world. I look forward to seeing you in class, getting to know you, helping you to improve your writing skills, and preparing you for all your future endeavors.  
 


𝗔𝗹𝗶𝘆𝗮 𝗕𝗲𝗻𝗮𝗯𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗿𝗮𝘇𝗮𝗸 is a University of Tennessee - Knoxville graduate. She has experience teaching students of all ages, from preschool to adulthood. She is passionate about educational equity, and is a supporter of pursuits for justice in learning. Aliya's areas of expertise include writing, language arts, social sciences, and humanities. She is also bilingual and loves teaching courses in both English and Spanish. As an educator Aliya's teaching style focuses on the intrinsic motivation and holistic wellness of her students.

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Live Group Course
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$145

for 5 classes
5x per week, 1 week
55 min

Live video meetings
Ages: 14-18
4-6 learners per class

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