Short Stories Creative Writing Assignment

English 10 CP1+2 & H Macdonald/ Rybicki

Short Stories – Creative Writing Assignment

Subject: For your last assignment you will not be writing a formal 5-paragraph essay, but instead writing a creative short story. You will be using a painting as a window into a world. You must create a storyline based on what is happing in the painting; it is your choice whether the actual painting or “snapshot” takes place at the beginning, middle, or end of your story.

* I would like you to choose a painting that includes people although the story does not necessarily need to be from the perspective of a person.

Here are some things to consider:

1. Make sure you review the short stories terms handout. Your story should include a large number of those elements. It may even help to fill out a blank worksheet using your story to help you figure out where you want the story to go. For instance, if your painting is very dark and dismal the mood you may create would be one of despair or fear.

2. Use your 5 senses in describing scenes and people. Paintings are obviously visual but think about what you might hear if you were actually in your painting. What would you smell? Is their food that you could taste? Sea breezes you could feel? Using the five senses is a great way to create a vivid short story.

3. Since this will be a short, short story make sure you write what you need. Choose your words carefully and try to stay away from unnecessary information.

Expectations: - Length: 700-1000 words. This is approximately 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 pages depending on your formatting. If you are under or over the word count you will lose points.

- Format: MLA header format with title, size 12, double spaced.

- On a separate page from your essay you must have a picture of the painting. I would really like the picture to be large and in color. You will not lose points if it is not, but it would make me happy  Getting an A: I am looking for a strong connection between your short story and a painting. The painting is your tool; use it well. Work on creative language, vivid details and voice. This is a great assignment for being yourself and showing off your skills as a storyteller and writer. Language will be provocative, rhythmical and creative.

Due Date:

Grade Breakdown: You will be given a letter grade for this assignment and it will be a test grade. Your grade will be heavily based on your ability to draw connections between your storyline and the painting you have chosen, your ability to follow and include the elements of a short story, and lastly, your grade will be based on your descriptive language.

Automatic Deductions: -10 Incorrect Formatting -10 1 day late -20 2 days late

Short stories will not be accepted after two days and will be marked a zero.

If you plagiarize, I will catch you. You will receive a zero. Your guidance counselor, dean, and parents will be notified.