One thing that is often under-emphasised in high school creative writing is the editing process. This guide was designed for an elective subject where we had a lot more time than the usual English class, but it may be helpful for those running writing clubs, the NSW Extension II course, or to modify for classroom use. It's in 5 parts: Plot, Voice & POV, Descriptions, Pacing & Consistency, and Polishing & Feedback. Originally, there was a lot more white space (for students to write their notes in). Printable PDF versions are available on request.
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Back in primary school, I learnt this about narrative writing:
There's an orientation (setting the scene), a complication and a resolution (where the complication is solved). Sound familiar? Then, in high school, I learnt the same thing, before moving on to maxims like "show, don't tell" (more on that later) and techniques like dialogue and metaphor. I learnt how to write good sentences, maybe even good paragraphs. The thing that was missing - and it's an absolutely crucial thing - was how to create a plot. We moved straight from structure to technique, without much consideration of content. Students are learning how to write a story, sure. Are they learning how to write an interesting story? This post was prompted by a discussion about the compulsory creative writing part of the HSC exam and how we can get kids to practise writing, even when it's not an area of interest or strength for them.
Writers don't all do the same thing. I've had other writers recommend creative writing books to me that I hated, and over on Scribophile the "plotter vs pantser" debate is second only to the "self-publish vs traditionally publish" one. It's important to note that while there might be writing or editing "rules", there are no rules for the creative process. So with that in mind, I'm including exercises that encourage whatever existing creativity is there and teach skills, rather than a beginning-to-end process. |
To arrange a writing workshop in your school or community group, please use the "contact" tab above or contact Creative Net Speakers Agency.
Whole day (9am-3pm) workshops are available at a cost of $600AUD. Travel costs may apply to schools outside the Newcastle/Lake Macquarie region. Archives
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