What's included
6 live meetings
4 in-class hoursHomework
1 hour per week. There is not any assigned homework for this class. Students may expand on the story they begin in class, or choose to spend time writing on one of the other prompts from class that they didn't select.Assessment
Students will be assessed based on participation. Students are expected to write for the full Active Writing Time, and listen respectfully during the Teaching and Sharing portions of class. Students do not have to share their work unless they want to. (Usually students who don't wish to share, quickly change their mind in the first couple of classes when the see the warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm with which I receive each student's ideas.)Class Experience
US Grade 5 - 8
Let's jump in and create some fun and magical stories together! Each week, we'll start with a mini-lesson where I'll introduce a new tool, skill, or perspective that will help you become the best writer you can be! After that, I'll introduce sompe writing prompts for you to pick from, and we'll be off! After some independent writing time, while I'm there to help whenever you get stuck, we'll have plenty of time for those who want to share their stories to do so at the end of class. Sharing is one of the most rewarding and confidence building parts of class! :) Here are the things we'll we talking (and writing) about each week: Class 1: We'll play with some creative writing prompts, where students can pick a prompt of their choice to write about. We'll also take the Writer's Oath and talk about what it means to be a writer. Class 2: We'll read about Gail Carson Levine's story of becoming a writer and play with another creative writing prompt she suggests! :) Class 3: We'll talk about the importance of being brave and sharing our words, our voices, our ideas and our creations with the world. Then we'll write on one of two creative writing prompts, and share. Class 4: We'll talk about and practice brainstorming story ideas -- and make a big list that students can always refer back to if they're feeling stuck on what to write about. Then we'll pick one of the prompts to write about! :) Class 5: We'll talk about how to begin a story -- and how our stories don't always end up the way we plan, and that's okay. Students will have the chance to write a story, starting in three different places in order to compare and play with which beginning they like best. :) Class 6: We'll practice the power of observation. I'll guide students through an exercise to practice this in class and give tips for how they can play with this at home if they choose. Then we'll do a creative writing prompt that allows them to put these new skills into action! If you have a student who enjoys creative writing and would love to play with expanding their stories and discovering their own unique voice in storytelling, I'd love to have them join us!
Learning Goals
Students will learn about the practice of writing and develop a consistent writing practice of their own through this course.
Students will write a new story (or expand on existing ideas from a previous story) in each class.
Students will gain confidence in their skills as a writer, and learn to see themselves as "writers."
Students will collaborate and share their ideas and writing processes with the other students in the class.
Other Details
Supply List
Students may have their own copy of the book WRITING MAGIC by Gail Carson Levine if they would like to read ahead or simply want to have a copy of their own, but this is not necessary. I will provide all of the writing prompts and instructions each week, so all they need is some paper or a notebook and something to write with! ...As well as their own imagination and creative ideas. :) I'm so looking forward to exploring this work of writing together!
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Teacher expertise and credentials
Oregon Teaching Certificate in Elementary Education
2 Degrees
Bachelor's Degree in Foreign Language from Luther College
Bachelor's Degree in Education from Luther College
In addition to my time teaching writing as an elementary school teacher, I took additional summer coursework in teaching writing (and in practicing the art of writing ourselves!) and I also teach writing as a form of healing, empowerment and inspiration for adults as a life coach.
Reviews
Live Group Class
$16
weekly or $96 for 6 classes1x per week, 6 weeks
40 min
Completed by 7 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 10-14
3-9 learners per class