In this class we will begin by discussing the importance of characters, plot and setting in stories.  I will explain how to weave these three elements into an exciting short story. In our first meeting we will brainstorm about the child's favorite animal and create a rough outline of ideas for a plot and setting for this animal story.  We will also create an exciting first sentence. The child will be asked to think about additional details after class. In our second class, we will write out the animal's adventure and add details about the setting and character traits. Depending on time, we may be able to discuss an appropriate conclusion to the story. The child will be asked to work on improving our in class work for homework.  In our third class, we will make sure the story flows smoothly, and that it includes elements of character description, setting and action.   I will discuss  age appropriate spelling and grammar on a very limited basis. The purpose of this class is to encourage creativity, not focus on grammar. At the end of three class, the child will hopefully have a completed story to share with parents.  I expect the stories to be about 2 sentences for each year of a child's age.  For example, a 6 year old might have a 12 sentence story, but a 10 year old might have a 20 sentence story. If your child signs up for an additional set of lessons after completing an animal story, we usually write about some form of transportation.  This is more challenging because we don't often think about cars, trucks or trains as having personalities or adventures, but I will guide the student to personify these inanimate objects.