Introduction to Creative Writing: Developing a Portfolio

3 credits · Undergraduate

(3 hrs Lecture) In this course students are introduced to skills, techniques, and approaches to writing creatively across different modes/forms of writing. Focus may include: characterization, arrangement, plotting, pacing, narrative voice, figurative language, sound, rhythm, and other aesthetic and/or narrative elements. This course also introduces students to the importance of peer-to-peer workshopping, and aims to guide students in both the development of craft and an understanding of why and how it is used. Requisite Courses: 6 credit hours of First-year English, including ENGL-1001(6) or ENGL-1000(3) [prerequisite(s)]. ENGL-2113 (3 or 6) Picture Books for Children (3 hrs Lecture) This course explores picture book elements, industries, and modes of reception and interpretation, involving strategies such as small-group discussions, presentations, oral and written forms of analysis, and the making of picture books. Of particular interest is our exploration of experimental and innovative picture book forms and their contribution to changing concepts of the child, childhood and children's culture. This course may incorporate experiential, community-based and service-learning components. Requisite Courses: 6 credit hours of First-year English, including ENGL-1001(6) or ENGL-1000(3) [prerequisite(s)]. ENGL-2114 (3 or 6) Fairy Tales and Culture (3 hrs Lecture) The course examines fairy tales from their origins in oral narrative to their uses in contemporary culture. Students explore the major themes and characteristics of traditional tales, such as those collected by the Grimms and Afanas'ev. They consider the function of fairy tales in contemporary society (in, for example, the social texts of weddings and proms) and study narratives influenced by fairy tales, particularly narratives directed to audiences of young people. Topics might include fantasy literature; narrative revisions of fairy tales; Disney's animation of fairy tales; or contemporary narrative films using fairy-tale motifs. Requisite Courses: 6 credit hours of First-year English, including ENGL-1001(6) or ENGL-1000(3) [prerequisite(s)].