How to Write a Novel [Part 1: Create an Outline] Let's Plan Your Book, Together!

In this course, students will learn the fundamentals of writing and outlining their novels via PowerPoint and discussion. They will practice writing skills such as writing dynamic character sketches, explaining the themes, opening and closing scenes, creating an entire scene breakdown of their novel, writing conflict, time, place, and more for their first novel. The goal here is to prep for writing a book. Students will have writing time in each class to begin their assignment for that week. 

This class can be used to design a graphic novel as well! Writing a book / novel / Graphic Novel all require a strong outline and planning. This class will provide that. 

This class will teach students how to outline their book / novel.  Each week (detailed below), they will practice a skill and submit it to me for review. By the end of 4 weeks, they will have full character sketches, a plot outline, and the opening act of their novel.  This is a creative class, so students are encouraged to think outside the box and offer new exciting ideas for their stories. 

Students will submit character sketches, short outlines, and scene breakdowns for teacher and peer review.  I will be giving detailed feedback to each student on their work. Students will not be required to submit work, but are highly encouraged in order to receive feedback. 

I love to engage with my students, so I will be available for back and forth written communication via Outschool. I will respond to students' questions within 24 hours. 

Teacher Expertise: BA in Creative Writing, MA in English and Creative Writing, and I have written a novel! 

Weekly Layout of class: 
Week 1 
Brainstorming, understanding a general outline, and developing our characters. 
Week 2 
Discuss the theme and conflict of a story. 
Week 3
Outline significant points of the story. Writing our Opening acts. 
Week 4 
Scene Breakdown - Beginning through the end. Follow up with the theme and highlight significant points.