Does your child recoil in horror at the mere mention of writing? It's probably because of an imbalance between academic and creative writing, but I'll let you in on a secret: this class is like the hidden veggie puree you mix into the mac and cheese or chocolate muffins. The students will think they're having fun writing creatively, but all the while they're learning different styles and techniques that great writers use. 

In this ongoing class we will focus on creative writing in order to remind students of the joy they once felt while writing creatively. This is a workshop style class designed to provide different exercises each week to get that creative brain muscle moving. Each class is unique in nature and allows students to join at any time. 

Each week I will present an example of a technique or style using mentor texts (a text that can be used as a great example of a specific technique or style). Students will write their own pieces using the techniques and styles they learn in order to produce something unique. 
For example, the students will read a poem in which the author focuses on the use of personification and uses a specific style of delivery; students will think of their own topic and write an entirely new poem in the same style/format. 
Another example is to read the introductory page of a book whose author portrays an exceptional example of imagery. After reading this notable example of imagery, students will write their own short piece that focuses heavily on imagery. 

These classes are designed to get students out of their comfort zones while offering creative formats, formulas, techniques, and styles students can emulate. 
This class is student focused and students are highly encouraged to share their writing with the group. If a student writes something personal and does not wish to share, they are not required to share. I will keep track of student sharing time so that each student has the opportunity to speak. Some writing activities are completed by the individual and others are a "round robin" sort of writing where students write for a set amount of time and then trade pieces to continue writing someone else's story. 

There is no required experience or knowledge other than being able to read and write in English. This class is not grammar focused, but if there is a specific literary technique, such as personification, I will provide an example and explanation. 

Note: The topics/exercises are the same techniques as the high school writing class, but they scaled down to meet the needs of middle schoolers. 

Week of April 3rd Writing Prompt Round Robin
Week of April 10th Characters
Week of April 17th Poetry Pick
Week of April 24th Fable Writing