Creative writing: a short introduction to the key principles

About this course

Participants explore character, setting, narrative voice, dialogue and plot through discussions, reading and guided writing exercises. The course also covers strong openings, conflict and tension, showing rather than telling, and self-editing. Learners write in response to prompts, reflect on their own and others’ work, revise drafts and share writing for verbal feedback. Group work and weekly written tasks provide opportunities to apply the techniques introduced in class.

What you'll learn

• Apply core storytelling elements including character, setting, narrative voice, dialogue and plot.
• Create creative writing in response to prompts and develop stronger openings, characters and plots.
• Use conflict, tension and showing rather than telling in written work.
• Revise and self-edit drafts using critical awareness of writing techniques.
• Evaluate their own and others’ writing with sensitivity.

Is this course right for you?

The course is labelled Beginner, indicating an introductory focus, but it asks learners to have a good level of written English, at least GCSE level. Participants should be prepared to write regularly, share work with classmates, discuss writing and respond to verbal and written feedback.

• Weekly homework is shared with classmates and regular reading is encouraged.
• There is no exam or formal assessment.

Before you go

• Weekly homework is set and shared with classmates.
• Regular reading alongside the course is encouraged.
• A Certificate of Completion is available from the college on request.