CREATIVE WRITING
Mrs. Bull

COURSE DESCRIPTION

This semester-long course consists of three basic components: fiction, nonfiction, and poetry writing. You will practice these genres in many different forms, learning to use your imagination and creativity. You also will share, edit, and revise your writing and the writing of others, evaluate the work of professional writers; and submit pieces for a writing portfolio that showcases your work. Make a commitment to your work and take pride in what you write. Do not worry about your creative skills at the beginning of the course; our classroom experiences will be dedicated to improvement no matter what your level today.

WRITERS’ WORKSHOP

During this class you will become a part of a writing community. You will listen to the other people in our class and offer support, advice, and ideas. Likewise, you will share your work and receive feedback from your peers. Besides participating in writer response groups, you will read published authors, regularly write and experiment in a writer’s notebook, revise writing routinely, reflect upon your own writing processes and results, and confer with me about your writing.

Skills:Workshop AttitudesGrade(SWAG)

The Creative Writing course is a junior/ senior elective designed to enhance your writing skills in a more creative framework than traditional academic writing. Even though we are sure to have fun, in preparation for life after high school, you will be expected to participate in this course as if it were a professional work environment. A “Skills:Workshop and Attitudes” grade (SWAG) will reflect your ability to act in a mature, cooperative, responsible, and respectful manner at all times. This grade will take into account time management; task completion; respect for peers, guests, and teacher; discussion contribution and participation; ability to follow directions and ask appropriate questions; ability to listen and speak at appropriate times; and attendance in class. Points will be deducted for unexcused or uncleared absences.

ATTENDANCE

Because of the importance of class discussions, activities, and the workshop format of the course, your attendance in class is crucial to your success. Most assignments, especially major projects or writing pieces, are due on the due date whether you are in class or not. Figure out how you will turn them in on time. If you know you are going to be gone, you know the policy is to get your assignments in advance. I will try to accommodate you, but not all assignments may be available.

  • Check Infinite Campus for missing work.
  • Check my website for details of assignments:

Self-Reflection,Self-Evaluation, Your Portfolio

A reflective-learning habit can influence your learning for years to come. Our course will include an emphasis on reflective writing which will be threaded throughout the course. You will consider your writing processes, your sense of growth as a writer, and your assessment of your writing products. The portfolio is a collection your accomplishments. It is a way of showing what you know about writing, what kinds of experiences with writing you have attempted, and what sorts of writing you do well and can showcase. Your artifacts and reflections will combine for a portfolio of writing you can be proud of; and for some of you, it will become a keepsake you will cherish or the beginning of a portfolio of writing you can build on as you continue your life as a writer.

Grade Distribution Grading Scale

SWAG30%

Writer’s Notebook
& Invention Assignments30%

Write, Reflect, Present40%

Total categories above = 85% of semester grade

Semester test (Portfolio Completion and Presentation) = 15% of the semester grade

District Grading Scale

A = 93-100%

B = 85-92%

C = 76-84%

D = 65-75%

F = 64% or lower

SUPPLIES

  • 3-ring binder or folder to be used only for this class for handouts and portfolio
  • Writer’s Notebook (A spiral notebook will work, or you can get fancier. You need to be able to leave it with me from time to time, so don’t plan on using it for anything else.)
  • Highlighters
  • Pens and pencils
  • E-mail address to use to register with
  • Flash drive – recommended

KEEP IN TOUCH

Parents and guardians: You play an important role in a child’s success at school by encouraging excellent attendance, demonstrating a positive attitude and support toward school and teachers, and being interested in your student’s accomplishments. Please feel free to contact me at school with questions and concerns.

E-mail:Website LHS phone 367-7990