Writing Narratives (Unit 3 of IEW)

**In Fall 2024, I will continually have this class on Fridays.   I have some Tuesdays during the summer scheduled as well. 

Students often struggle with writing, especially "creative writing," because they don't know what to write about.  Or, they start off strong but the story never really ends.  Or, they hate it so much that they rush through it and nothing is ever improved. 

The IEW (Institute for Excellence in Writing) method gives all students specific, incremental steps to follow.  Struggling students benefit from the clear, step-by-step guidelines.  Strong writers benefit from the clear path and expectations, freeing them to be creative.   A small group with a variety of writers in an encouraging environment is ideal.

This class covers IEW Unit 3 (Narratives).

In this class, we examine and outline short fable-type stories.  Students then re-tell the story with their own creative elements, which takes the stress out of "trying to think of a story."  Repeating the process several times gives them proficiency and confidence. 

Each week we will add certain grammar concepts to improve their writing skills.  Students are expected to use these concepts in their rewriting. 

Students should be able to listen to and comprehend a short story that I read aloud (generally one page).  Students should be able to take notes by copying my notes from a whiteboard, and they should be able to copy specific words and phrases from the stories, from the board, and by listening to others. 

Students should be able to complete a 1 to 3 paragraph story in their own writing (handwriting or typing).  We will begin the story during class, but they will likely finish it after class.  

I teach a fairly structured class, but I do ask for interaction and ideas.  Students should share their ideas, words, and stories as they feel comfortable.  This class exceeds Common Core standards, and is not "fluff".  We do real work in this class.  

Even students who normally hate to write learn to enjoy writing this way because they gain success and specific skills.  Often, students are inspired to continue writing long after class, partly due to my constant encouragement, and partly because this process works! 

Each week we read a short narrative, generally an Aesop fable.  Each week we change a different part of the story and add different dress-ups, so it is totally fine if they repeat a story.