Introduction to Creative Writing s1

Introduction to Creative Writing Fall/Spring 2017-2018 Manhasset High School Ms. Kannengieser [email protected]

“Fill your paper with the breathings of your heart.” —William Wordsworth

Course description: This class is intended for students interested in the creative writing process. We will write, read, participate in a writer’s workshop and prepare our work for publication in The Phoenix. As a class we will investigate various forms of writing, specifically the genres of creative nonfiction, poetry, drama and fiction. Students will be required to read selections brought into class and be prepared to write about and discuss such literature. As independent writers, students will be required to write at least one work of creative nonfiction, a one act play, one work of fiction and three poems. Additionally, students will be required to participate in a writing workshop—both as a writer and as a critic. Finally, students will be required to submit at least one piece of work to The Phoenix.

Class Materials: In addition to ordinary school supplies, students need to have a composition book to use as a writing journal.

Grades: You will be graded on the following criteria:

20% Classroom participation—in class writing, sharing, discussions of reading, as well as preparedness, and positive contributions to the class and writing workshop.

25% Writing Journal and Rough Draft writing assignments

30% Final Drafts of poems, nonfiction, fiction and drama.

20% Final Portfolio

5% Submissions to The Phoenix

"You only learn to be a better writer by actually writing." --Doris Lessing Classroom Expectations:

1. Respect everyone in the room, including yourself. 2. Be on time and prepared for class every day. 3. Challenge yourself. Great writers must work to find answers inside themselves. 4. Be respectful of others at all times—especially when dealing with their art. 5. Be prepared to write. Constantly. 6. And follow all rules outlined in the Manhasset Code of Conduct. Especially those regarding phones.

“Read in order to live.” —Gustav Flaubert

Required Reading:

Good writers are excellent readers. It is key in your development as a writer to read different kinds of writing. In this class you will be assigned to read poetry, fiction and nonfiction mostly class. You are expected to be ready to discuss these readings by during class discussions.

I also strongly encourage you to read for fun outside of class. It is not easy during the school year, but it helps us become better writers.

“If I lose the light of the sun, I will write by candlelight, moonlight, no light. If I lose paper and ink, I will write in blood on forgotten walls. I will write always. I will capture nights all over the world and bring them to you.” ---Henry Rollins “A bird doesn't sing because it has an answer, it sings because it has a song.” ― Maya Angelou