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Introduction to Writing Fiction (ENCW 2215)
Total Credits:
3
Lecture Credits:
3
Description:
This course introduces you to the practice of writing fiction. With guidance from exercises and other learning activities, you will craft your own short stories, exploring a variety of fiction traditions and forms—such as realism, speculative fiction, historical fiction, flash fiction—building your skill and experience as you move through the writing process. In this course you will be part of a supportive community of student-writers exchanging feedback in whole-class or small-group workshops. You will also expand your awareness as a writer by reading and responding to published works written by a diverse range of authors. No previous creative writing experience required.
Topical Outline:
1. Fiction writing process and practice
2. Fiction writing activities, exercises, assignments
3. Fiction techniques and elements
4. Fiction forms
5. Reading & analyzing short works of fiction
6. Fiction’s function in the world and society
Learning Outcomes:
1. Write fiction with more skill, effectiveness, creativity, and social awareness
2. Engage in a writing process through a series of steps: generating, drafting, revising, etc.
3. Understand and use a range of fiction writing techniques and elements (e.g. description, voice, point of view, character development, plot development)
4. Understand and use a range of fiction writing forms (e.g. flash fiction, short story)
5. Work collaboratively with other writers and contribute to a creative community, particularly through full class workshops and/or small group peer review
6. Read and analyze works of fiction with more critical literacy skill, understanding their craft as well as their historical and social contexts (e.g. race, gender, class)
Prerequisites:
ENGL 1110 or
ENGA 1110
MnTC:
Goal 6: The Humanities and Fine Arts