Intermediate Creative Writing: Shape Your Story (Day)

About this course

The course examines the main elements involved in developing a novel, including genre, narrative viewpoint, theme, chronology, character, plot, setting, tone and voice. Learners use writing prompts and structured exercises to explore these areas, with presentations providing supporting information about creative writing. Classwork and homework are used to review development, while individual learning targets help shape the work during the course. Participants begin developing a first draft and consider possible next steps for their writing.

What you'll learn

• Identify key elements of novel writing, including genre, viewpoint, theme, plot and setting.
• Develop realistic characters and consider how they function within a story.
• Use tone and voice when shaping written work.
• Begin a first draft of a novel.
• Plan possible next steps in developing a longer piece of writing.

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for learners aged 19 and over who want to write or continue a novel. It involves regular writing outside class, including homework, alongside participation in class exercises and activities. The source describes it as suitable for all levels, without stating that previous writing experience is required.

• Suitable for learners developing a novel or wishing to continue an existing project.
• Requires time for regular writing outside class.
• Includes classwork and homework activities.
• Individual learning targets are set at the start of the course.

Before you go

• Learners must bring writing tools of their choice, such as a notepad and pen, iPad or laptop.
• Literacy and numeracy support is available through the basic education programme.
• ESOL support is available for speakers of other languages.
• Additional support may be available for learners with learning difficulties or disabilities.