Independent+Writing

Homework for April 2: Pick one of the images and use it as inspiration for a creative story. Write for a minimum of 20 minutes (draft only).
= = =Independent (Creative) Writing Assignment #1=

__Basic Requirements__:
Must be a story (based on a piece from your Writing Folder). Final Draft typed using 1.5" spacing and 12 Point Font. Minimum Word Limit 400; Maximum Limit Five Pages.

__Due Dates (and Recommended Process)__:
Peer Review in class. ||
 * Wednesday, Nov 26 || Pick your idea from your writing folder. ||
 * Thursday, Nov 27 || Plan your Rough Draft. ||
 * Friday/Sat/Sun, Nov 28-30 || Create a full Rough Draft, using writing tips below. ||
 * Monday, Dec 1 || Full Rough Draft **DUE** at beginning of class.
 * Tues/Wed Dec 2-3 || Revise and Edit your piece. Create Final Draft. ||
 * Thursday, Dec 4 || Final Draft, Rough Draft, and Original Piece **DUE**. ||

__Tips for Writing a Story__:
//Develop Realistic Characters// - Brainstorm a list of character traits (personality, likes, dislikes, etc.). Draw a picture of your character(s) to help you imagine their physical characteristics.

//Start Off with Action// - Beginning your story in the middle of the action will grab your readers' attention and make them want to read more. You can always use narration or flashback techniques to explain why these actions have occurred.

//Show, Don't Tell// - Describe characters and events using action (not description). Likewise, internal thoughts and dialogue can all be used to develop your character.

//Use Dialogue Effectively// - Dialogue can do a lot for your story (describe characters and events, provide voice, etc). Be sure to use it correctly (lots of punctuation rules!) and judiciously. Only provide the most critical parts of a character's conversations. Let the reader's imagination fill in the rest.

//Use Sensory Words// - When appropriate, use multiple senses to describe places and things. (ex. if you're describing an ocean voyage, include the taste of salt in the air and squawking of seagulls). This will make your writing more vivid and realistic.

//Focus on Conflict// - Establish a conflict for your character by the end of the first page. Be sure to keep the action moving until it comes to a peak (climax) and a turning point for your character.

//Write with the Ending in Mind// - Plan out your writing so that you have a clear idea of how it will end. Write deliberately and efficiently to move your character through the conflict to reach your desired ending.

//Avoid Storybook Endings// - Good stories rarely end with "happily ever after". Remember, real conflict changes us all both physically and emotionally. Be sure to examine these changes in your character as part of the story's resolution.

//Stay Tuned... More Tips to Come!//

__Attachments__:
Editing Checklist Scoring Rubric Plot Chart