The first eight weeks of the course
focuses on Creative Nonfiction, and the second eight weeks on Poetry. The
course is designed as an introduction to each genre. We’ll do lots of writing
both inside and outside of class, in addition to reading and discussing the
work of accomplished writers from a wide range of traditions and sensibilities.
Class time will be devoted primarily to writing exercises, work shopping
student writing, and discussing assigned readings. My goal for the class is that by the end of
term, you will have begun (or continue) to develop a writer’s voice distinctly
your own.
Required texts (available from Revolution Books in Puck’s
Alley*)
· The Teachers and
Writers Handbook of Poetic Forms, Ed. Ron
Padgett
· The Truth of the
Matter: Art and Craft in Creative Nonfiction,Dinty
W. Moore
· Course Reader (TBA)
Also required: Journal
Assignments &
Grades
- Online Responses 30%
- Attendance, Participation &
Discussion 20% - Portfolio
50%
Course
Requirements
- Online responses: For each assigned reading, a written response
will be due on our website (Laulima) by 6am on class days. - Attendance, Participation &
Discussion
(This is crucial to getting the most out of this class!) - Portfolio: This will consist of three parts:
1. A Collection of revised and polished Poetry (5 – 7 pages), and Creative Nonfiction
(7- 10 pages), a total of 12-17 pages or so, written during the semester.;
2. ALL
original Drafts (with my comments);
3. Free-writing
exercises completed in class.
To pass
the course, all work must be completed.