Translating Poetry
One assignment in this unit asks that you translate a poem into a more modernized version. To see a sample, click here.
Rip Van Winkle
Washington Irving's story "Rip Van Winkle" is filled with strong imagery, vivid settings, realistic dialogue, interesting characters, and a powerful ending. As you read this story, be sure to take notes in order to conquer the quizzes. Additionally, keep in mind that you will be writing your own creative story that uses many of the techniques that Irving uses. For an engaging recording of Rip Van Winkles' adventures, check out this recording: http://www.chatterboxtheater.org/node/326#. Hope it helps you get a feel for creative storytelling!
Writing Dialogue
Dialogue is an important component of a story. Not only does it move the plot along, but it can also reveal traits of a character. If you need a bit of help making the words count, check out the sample dialogue in the attached handout.
Creating Atmosphere
I'm not talking about the air we breathe or the substance that keeps us from plummeting into space. I'm talking about the mood or feeling of a story. Suspenseful, spooky, somber, sad... The attached document gives a few pointers from the master: Edgar Allen Poe.
Radio Shows
As you work on the creative writing pieces of the class, you may find it helpful to read and listen to works of fiction to inspire you. Check out these radio shows below for some enjoyable listening!
One of my favorite things to do on the weekend is to light a fire, curl up in a comfy chair with a cup of coffee, and listen to the radio. Yes, I said radio. A Prairie Home Companion has been around for a long time, but I only just discovered it a couple years ago and I'm hooked. If you ever have a couple of hours to kill on a Saturday or Sunday, you should give it a try. Here's the link to the website: http://prairiehome.publicradio.org/.
Another cool radio show also features Garrison Keillor, the host of A Prairie Home Companion. It's called The Writer's Almanac, and it's filled with lots of cool stories, writing tips, and more. As you work on the creative writing portions of the course (particularly for the “Rip Van Winkle” section), it's always helpful to read and listen to well-written works. If this sounds even remotely interesting, here's the site: http://writersalmanac.publicradio.org/.
I leave you with Keillor's closing words: "Be well, do good work, & keep in touch."
One of my favorite things to do on the weekend is to light a fire, curl up in a comfy chair with a cup of coffee, and listen to the radio. Yes, I said radio. A Prairie Home Companion has been around for a long time, but I only just discovered it a couple years ago and I'm hooked. If you ever have a couple of hours to kill on a Saturday or Sunday, you should give it a try. Here's the link to the website: http://prairiehome.publicradio.org/.
Another cool radio show also features Garrison Keillor, the host of A Prairie Home Companion. It's called The Writer's Almanac, and it's filled with lots of cool stories, writing tips, and more. As you work on the creative writing portions of the course (particularly for the “Rip Van Winkle” section), it's always helpful to read and listen to well-written works. If this sounds even remotely interesting, here's the site: http://writersalmanac.publicradio.org/.
I leave you with Keillor's closing words: "Be well, do good work, & keep in touch."