ENGLISH COURSES Poetry and Creative Writing (10-12) Poetry and Creative Writing is a workshop developed originally for professional authors to help maintain a steady “flow” of ideas and inspiration. Enhanced here for young writers, the course begins with an introduction to modern poetry, the traditions that shaped it, and the “uses” of poetry both artistic and practical. The latter part of the course examines recent trends in poetry such as slam and performance poetry, neo-formalism, and other hybrids and then moves on to explore the future with an emphasis on discussion and employment of “new” poetic forms. This course also familiarizes students with the basics of fiction: plot, characterization, conflict, dialogue, narrative voice, and point of view. Students will begin writing from day one and will be expected to maintain journals of their work. Special “industrial” projects will be given periodically and much of the overall grade will be determined by responses to these tasks. Students will also be coached on performance and shown techniques for public speaking. The course culminates in an on campus reading given by the class.
Novel Writing (10-12) and Honors Capstone: Novel Writing (By Application) This course will guide students through the process of writing a novel from the ground up! Topics will include brainstorming fruitful ideas, creating three-dimensional characters, building a propulsive plot, crafting strong dialogue, revising for clarity and fluency, and more. In the process, students will workshop their work with peers, hear from other aspiring and published novelists, and experiment with fun prompts and projects. The course will culminate in a celebration of their complete drafts.
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