Creative Writing Course Outline
Course Objectives
- Understand the nature of creative writing and its different genres.
- Produce original texts in prose, poetry, and drama.
- Use figurative language, imagery, and sensory details effectively.
- Develop characters, plots, and settings in narrative writing.
- Revise and edit their own writing for clarity and creativity.
- Build confidence in sharing and presenting their work.
Course Content
Unit 1: Introduction to Creative Writing
- What is creative writing?
- Differences between creative and academic writing.
- Activity: Write a description of a familiar place using sensory details.
Unit 2: Imagination and Figurative Language
- Metaphors, similes, and personification.
- Creating vivid imagery through senses.
- Activity: Rewrite a simple paragraph in a more imaginative way.
Unit 3: Narrative Writing
- Elements of a story: beginning, middle, and end.
- Character development and point of view.
- Activity: Write a short story (around 300 words).
Unit 4: Poetry and Expressive Writing
- Free verse and simple poetic forms.
- Rhythm, sound, and emotional expression.
- Activity: Write a short poem or a personal reflection.
Unit 5: Creative Nonfiction
- Writing memoirs and personal essays.
- Turning real experiences into creative texts.
- Activity: Write about a personal memory with sensory detail.
Unit 6: Dialogue and Drama
- Writing effective dialogue.
- Creating short dramatic scenes.
- Activity: Write a short dialogue between two characters.
Unit 7: Revision and Editing
- The importance of rewriting.
- How to give and receive peer feedback.
- Activity: Workshop on revising student drafts.
Unit 8: Final Project
- Portfolio including:
- - One short story.
- - One poem or reflective piece.
- - One personal or dramatic text.
Assessment
- Class participation & activities: 20%
- Weekly assignments: 30%
- Peer review & feedback: 10%
- Final portfolio: 40%
Recommended References
- Elements of Creative Writing – Open Educational Resource.
- Reading Like a Writer by Francine Prose.
- The Book You Need to Read to Write the Book You Want to Write by Sarah Burton & Jem Poster.
- Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott.
- On Writing by Stephen King.
