Intro to Writing Children’s Literature

Curriculum guideline

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Course
CRWR 1104
Discontinued
No
Course code
CRWR 1104
Descriptive
Intro to Writing Children’s Literature
Department
Creative Writing
Faculty
Language, Literature & Performing Arts
Credits
3.00
Start date
End term
201830
PLAR
No
Semester length
15 weeks
Max class size
20
Contact hours
4 hours per week
Method(s) of instruction
Tutorial
Learning activities

The bulk of the classes will be conducted in the workshop format; however, the instructor may use a portion of class time for lectures on various points of craft, such as creating characters children can relate to, making plots to fit the various forms children’s literature takes, and considering age-appropriate styles. Students will also be discussing examples of children’s literature.

Course description
This course concentrates on writing for children and young adults. It includes instruction in writing fiction and non-fiction in a variety of forms, with emphasis on appropriate structures and styles for various age groups, and on how to create convincing and appealing characters. While students will read published works of children’s literature, the emphasis is on student work, which is discussed in a workshop.
Course content

Selected stories from classic and contemporary children’s literature, including the picture book, chapter books, and the treatment of non-fiction for children. Student exercises and manuscripts will form the bulk of the course content. The four major written assignments will include the text for a picture book, not to exceed 1500 words; the outline for a chapter book and two sample chapters; a piece of non-fiction of 1500 words; and a free choice assignment that allows the student to write for the age group and in the form that most interests him or her.

Learning outcomes

The student will learn the techniques of plot and character development as they apply to stories and short novels for children.  The student will learn to recognize and produce appropriate subject matter and styles for children of various ages.  The student will learn to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of student writing, and give and take criticism that is specific and constructive.  The student will also learn to develop time management skills, especially the responsibility for setting and reaching deadlines.

Means of assessment

A minimum of four assignments must be submitted for class discussion, including the text for a picture book and chapters of a short chapter book.  The class assignments will comprise 70% of the course grade.  Other evaluations will be based on student response to published works of children’s literature (10%), and class participation (20%).

Students are required to attend 80% of the workshops.  A student missing more than 20% of the workshops without receiving prior permission from the instructor will receive a “0" in class participation.  Leaving after the break is considered half an absence.

Textbook materials

Textbooks and Materials to be Purchased by Students

A text such as Writing for Children and Teens by Marion Crook (1998, Self Counsel Press) may be required.

Prerequisites
  • Any College entrance Language Proficiency Requirement EXCEPT the Douglas College Course Options in ELLA or ENGU, O
  • Ra minimum grade of C- in ELLA 0460, or a minimum grade of C- in both ELLA 0465 and 0475, OR
  • a minimum grade of C- in ENGU 0450 or ENGU 0455 or ENGU 0490

 

 

Corequisites

ENGL 1112 recommended but not required.