Ways into poetry: a gentle pace
This course will be delivered online. See the ‘What is the course about?’ section in course details for more information.
Course Code: HW153
Duration: 5 sessions (over 5 weeks)
Please note: We offer a wide variety of financial support to make courses affordable. Just visit our online Help Center for more information on a range of topics including fees, online learning and FAQs.
What is the course about?
Poetry often comes from a very personal place and the process of writing and sharing it for the first time can seem very daunting. This introductory short course enables students new to the genre to explore the core forms of poetry, the key language techniques you can use for effect and some structural basics which will help you convey your message to the reader.
Please note that this course is located in a room with step access. If you have difficulties with mobility or use a wheelchair please contact us at writing@citylit.ac.uk to discuss.
This is a live online course. You will need:
- Internet connection. The classes work best with Chrome.
- A computer with microphone and camera is best (e.g. a PC/laptop/iMac/MacBook), or a tablet/iPad/smart phone/iPhone if you don't have a computer.
- Earphones/headphones/speakers.
We will contact you with joining instructions before your course starts.
What will we cover?
- Core poetic forms.
- Key approaches to structuring a poem.
- Key language techniques in poetry.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
- Understand the core poetic forms.
- Analyse approaches to structure and language within the genre.
- Write your own poetry.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
This course is for absolute beginners in the genre. Open to students who are trying poetry for the first time or who have never shared their work in a group setting before.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
You will be taught through a mix of indivudal, pair and group work, tutor instruction, text analysis, in-class writing activities and supportive workshop. Between sessions homework may be set to aid students in developing a writing discipline.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
Please bring pen and paper (and/or digital equivalents).
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
Once you've built your confidence on this introductory course, why not try Ways into poetry: an introduction or our term-long Ways into poetry course?
Andrew Weale is a poet and author of five picture books, including Nora: The Girl Who Ate and Ate and Ate, and the Red House Award winning Spooky Spooky House. He also lectures on picture book writing at Winchester University as part of the Children’s Writing MA, and mentors writers for the highly successful Golden Egg Academy.
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.
