Ways into creative writing: an introduction

Not sure whether creative writing is for you? Why not give it a try over 6 sessions? An opportunity to find out more about using language creatively and trying it out through guided writing exercises in class and out.

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Key course information

Dates
13/09/11 - 18/10/11

Day(s)
Tue

Duration
6 weeks

Time
19:40 - 21:40

Fees
Full fee: £68
Senior fee: £68
Concession: £20

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

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Course code
HW242

Availability
This course has finished

This course has finished

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Still got questions?
humanities@citylit.ac.uk or call 020 7492 2652

Course outline

What is the course about?

This course aims to give you a short introduction to the skills needed to write creatively. You will be encouraged to think in a creative way and to experiment with language, whether in prose or poetry. You will gain a greater understanding of how language works and of the devices and techniques used by writers.
The course is not designed for those wishing to improve their writing skills such as grammar and punctuation.

What topics will we cover?

Class exercises are designed to bring out each student's individual voice, loosen the imagination, move away from preconceived ideas, and promote writing confidence. Students and the tutor respond to the work individuals choose to read out in a supportive workshop atmosphere.

By the end of this course you should be able to:

- identify the characteristics of creative writing (as distinct from non-fiction).
- respond to, assess and discuss pieces of writing with sensitivity.
- recognise some of your own writing skills.
- recognise various techniques used by creative writers, such as imagery, point of view, 1st
person/3rd person narrative.
- produce several short pieces of writing - prose and/or poetry.
- take risks.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

You will have an interest in writing and reading prose fiction and/or poetry. You will be able to read and write fluently in English, using appropriate grammar and sentence structure for the writing tasks. You will be invited to read out texts you produce in class and at home. You should be able to respond to and discuss literary texts you have heard or read.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

In-class exercises (writing games, short writing tasks etc.); out-of-class assignments; small group discussion; tutor-led discussion; workshop readings (of students writing) and critical discussion; class brainstorming. Writing tasks will also be set as homework.

The tutor:
Josh Lacey is the author of more than fifteen books, mostly for children. His titles include A Dog Called Grk; Bearkeeper, a novel about a boy in Elizabethan London; the Misfitz Mysteries. He has also worked as a journalist and screenwriter.

City lit reserves the right to change course tutors or venues from those advertised in this outline. In line with our refund policy we are unable to grant a refund on the grounds of a change of tutor/venue.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

Paper (A4 writing pad) and pen/pencil. A folder for storing original work and handouts will be useful.

Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?

No.

What feedback will I get?

You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made.

How will I be able to give my views on the course?

Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.

How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?

You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; English and maths support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 213 of the 11/12 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

If you wish to explore creative writing further, you could join a term-long Ways into Creative Writing course.

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.

Who can I contact for further information?

Tel: 020 7492 2652

humanities@citylit.ac.uk

Advice times:

During term-time Monday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30

Non term-time Monday 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30.

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.

Select another date / day / time

Dates	Day(s)	Time	Duration	Fees	Snr	Conc	Code	Availability
13/09/11 to 18/10/11	Tue	19:40 - 21:40	6 weeks	£68	£68	£20	HW242	Finished	» Select
01/11/11 to 06/12/11	Tue	19:40 - 21:40	6 weeks	£68	£68	£20	HW280	Finished	» Select