English Language Arts Reading and Writing: Write a Comedic Short Story
In this Middle School ELA class, learners will learn about comedic writing styles by reading example stories, answering reading comprehension and genre questions, then writing their own scenes and short stories.
Ms. Chelsea M. Ed. | ELA, Paranormal, & True Crime
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What's included
4 pre-recorded lessons
4 weeks
of teacher support1 year access
to the contentHomework
1-2 hours per week. Feedback is not included for subscription families.Certificate of Completion
includedClass Experience
US Grade 6 - 8
Beginner - Intermediate Level
This class does not have any live meetings. In this class, learners will watch one approximately fifteen minute lecture video, then complete two activities. The last week, learners will complete three activities- they will read, write a scene, and create their own fully thought out short story. Each story will serve as an example of a type of comedy or method, and will be followed by reading comprehension questions, as well as analysis of the comedic traits within the story. Then learning will write in their own comedic style to demonstrate the traits discussed. We will begin by learning the basics of comedic writing, followed by character traits, wit and satire, and ending with dialogue and timing. Each lesson is outlined more in the syllabus section.
Learning Goals
Specific learning goals encompass the topics on the schedule outlined above. Students will learn about a different ELA topic each week and be able to apply their knowledge.Daily English Language Arts Skills Practiced in this class include but are not limited to:
-Learners will make text-to-text, text-to-self, and text-to-world connections.
-Learners will learn about literary elements
-Expression and comprehension
Syllabus
Curriculum
Follows Teacher-Created CurriculumStandards
Aligned with Common Core State Standards (CCSS)4 Lessons
over 4 WeeksLesson 1:
Intro to Comedy
Identify key elements of comedic storytelling, including humor styles. Learners will read “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” by James Thurber and write a short humorous scene using one of the comedic approached we discussed. 44 mins of video lessons
Lesson 2:
Character-Driven Comedy
Learners will analyze humorous character traits and comedic interactions. The will read “Charles” by Shirley Jackson, focusing on the humor in irony. They will then complete some reading comprehension questions and develop a comedic character profile. 16 mins of video lessons
Lesson 3:
Wit and Satire
Learners will explore the use of wit and satire in comedic writing. They will write a satirical short story or scene addressing a social or cultural theme. They will also read “They’re Made Out of Meat” by Terry Bisson and answer some reading comprehension questions. 26 mins of video lessons
Lesson 4:
Timing & Pacing
Learners will discuss the importance of sharp dialogue and comedic timing. They will create a dialogue-heavy comedic scene with a focus on timing and punchlines, read “The Hitchhiker” by Roald Dahl, and write a full short story. 7 mins of video lessons
Other Details
Learning Needs
I have the experience to support unique learning needs, we all have them, after all. Learning is not one size fits all. I provide support and scaffolding within the classroom to help learners grow.
Supply List
All necessary materials will be provided, including worksheets and reading passages. Videos will be embedded in the classroom for viewing. Optional materials your learners may want include but are not limited to: writing utensils, paper, and printed assignments.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined November, 2021
4.9
115reviews
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Teacher expertise and credentials
Texas Teaching Certificate in English/Language Arts
Master's Degree in Education from University of Texas of the Permian Basin
I am certified to teach grades 7-12 (middle and high school level) English/Language Arts in the state of Texas. I also hold a Bachelor's in Maritime Studies (anthropology), with minors in English and Archeology, and a Master's in Education. Reviews
Self-Paced Course
$18
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4 weeks of teacher support
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Ages: 10-14
