The writer's craft: develop your creative writing skills and understanding

About this course

This course develops creative writing through practical written exercises, close reading, discussion and groupwork. Participants explore ways to find inspiration and work with landscape, tension, villains, point of view, flashback, climax and resolution. Alongside writing practice, the course examines what makes writing effective and builds critical awareness of participants’ own work and that of others. Learners also consider how to present their writing professionally, including developing an effective synopsis. Verbal feedback is provided during the course, with written feedback on progress against agreed learning objectives.

What you'll learn

• Apply narrative techniques involving point of view, different perspectives, flashback, tension, climax and resolution.
• Develop creative writing from sources of inspiration, including landscape and character concepts such as villains.
• Analyse features of effective writing in their own work and in the work of others.
• Prepare an effective synopsis and present creative work more professionally.
• Identify ways to improve their writing using tutor feedback and critical reflection.

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for learners at Intermediate level who have a good standard of written English, stated as at least GCSE level. Participation involves writing, reading, discussion, groupwork and responding to feedback.

• A good level of written English is required.
• Learners are expected to take part in group discussion and groupwork.
• The course includes individual writing activities alongside reading and discussion.

Before you go

• A reading list is provided at the beginning of the course.
• There is no set homework, but learners are encouraged to read regularly and continue writing exercises at home.