Intro to Writing Children’s Literature
Curriculum guideline
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
- Any College entrance Language Proficiency Requirement EXCEPT the Douglas College Course Options in ELLA or ENGU, OR
- a 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 OR
- Mastery in ELLA 0330, and any two of ELLA 0310, 0320, or 0340.
ENGL 1112 recommended but not required.
Courses listed here are equivalent to this course and cannot be taken for further credit:
- No equivalency courses