Craft of Writing course criteria

Course Description:
This course emphasizes understanding the characteristics and techniques in the literary genres of fiction, poetry and dramatic writing. This course will continue to build on students’ reading and writing skills begun in Grammar & Style, Writing for Publication and Self Discovery & Performance Word and Text (i.e., 9th grade). Readings of works by major writers will be read and examined as inspiration and models of fine writing. Students will keep a portfolio of their writing progress, a writing journal, and participate in writing workshops.

Course Objectives:
• To understand and explore the characteristics of effective writing
• To learn successful writing techniques for fiction, poetry, and script writing
• To explore and develop each writer’s own authentic voice
• To practice the writing process (from brainstorming through publication)
• To communicate effectively in writers’ workshops
• To read a variety of different authors as models, inspiration, and for a better understanding of what makes ‘good’ writing ‘good’

Course Requirements:
• Participate in class assignments and projects
• Read, read, read; write, write, write!
• Engage in the complete writing process
• Keep a folder for handouts/work in progress/writing exercises
• Keep a writer’s portfolio of all work in progress and completed/revised work
• Keep a journal or writing notebook for writing assignments and practices
• Adhere to standard written English language conventions and grammar
• Communicate regularly with the teacher and peers through conference and workshop
• Participate in writing contests or send writing to publishers
• Attend school events and author’s nights (extra credit available*)
• Respect and follow the rules and procedures of the school and classroom

Course Evaluation:
25% Attendance, behavior, participation, homework, readers’ circle, writing workshops
25% Portfolio (graded each term), journal
25% Writing practices, writing projects
25% Tests/quizzes