Dungeons and Dragons is not only a fun game, but it can also be a great vehicle for teaching other subjects, such as creative writing.  In this class, students will learn to write their own Fifth Edition D&D adventure, with an emphasis on creative writing.  We will also discuss the mechanics of setting up combat, rules of play, awarding experience and treasure, and the other responsibilities of being a Dungeon Master.  

Each lesson includes a video lecture along with a handout of what is discussed in the video.  Over the course of the week, learners will have the opportunity to ask questions, engage in discussions, and do some writing practice.  For each lesson, a short writing assignment will be given.  During the last week, learners will combine their assignments into a coherent, playable encounter.

Learners should complete their writing assignments using a word processing software like Word or Open Office so they can utilize the spelling and grammar check tools.  Homework assignments should be submitted either through a shared Google Doc or in a PDF or Word format.

Lesson One:  World Building
We will cover the pro’s and con’s of choosing an established D&D world or creating your own.  Learners will be asked to consider such choices as the prevalence of magic, a pantheon of gods, time period, climate, and geography of the setting in which they want their adventure to take place.  We will also cover the basics of how to be a good Dungeon Master.

Lesson Two:  Getting Started
The ‘adventure hook’ is what gets the players going, and this week students will learn how to come up with a good one.  We will also cover how to keep the momentum going during longer adventures.

Lesson Three:  Local Settings
This lesson will go over how much description should be included when entering a new area or room and how to make the learner’s adventure come to life for the players.  We will also cover about the importance of using maps during adventures, and different methods of creating maps.

Lesson Four:  Non-Player Characters
Non-Player Characters (NPCs) can add a lot to an adventure if done well.  Students will learn how to create dynamic NPCs and how to role-play them while DMing.  We will also cover building engaging dialogue.

Lesson Five:  Combat
This lesson will teach learners how to build a combat encounter that will give their players just the right amount of challenge.  I will teach various methods for determining what type and how many monsters to have in a combat encounter as well as how to make combat encounters more immersive and engaging.  Learners will also get tips on how to manage the mechanics of combat when DMing.

Lesson Six:  Pulling It all Together
Learners will take all five of their creative writing assignments and assemble them into a clear, coherent D&D adventure.  We will talk about formatting the adventure to make sure it’s easily readable and how to make sure the learner has everything necessary to DM their adventure.  Learners will be encouraged to find friends or family to try their adventure.