Writing Young Adult Fiction

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Recognize different genres, styles within, and approaches to YA fiction;
• Identify the major craft elements in works of published YA fiction, and apply these craft elements to their own writing;
• Learn about the key conventions that are used in YA fiction, while also learning how to avoid imitation or cliché;
• Develop a self-directed writing practice that is consistent with the production of quality written work;
• Produce well-crafted YA fiction, with a focus on character development, character-driven conflict, and narrative structure;
• Develop skills to productively give and receive feedback in the workshop;
• Articulate notable craft choices made by their peers, and be able to suggest possible opportunities for peers to edit or strengthen their writing.