Literary Writing

1. Literary Writing short stories, poems, scripts

2. “Students need to explore a variety of fiction before they are asked to write their own. They need opportunities to discuss the author’s writing techniques, such as the following: interesting and engaging leads, well developed and understandable characters, consecutive events which ensure the inclusion of a setting, plot, problem, and solution, and convincing proof that the main character’s behavior is changed as a result of the solving of the problem.” Susan Miller/Donna Vincent Building the Foundation the Write Way

3. Short Stories • Have a focused purpose • Have setting details woven into the text of the story, allowing the reader entry into the story. • Have development of at least one character through his own words, thoughts, and actions and/or through those of another character • Have a tightly-woven plot limited to one main idea or purpose

4. Short Stories Cont’ • Have a problematic conflict which is developed as the story progresses • Have a resolution to that conflict • Have idea development through snapshots, thoughtshots, dialogue, description, etc.

5. Poems • Have a focused purpose which may paint a picture, recreate a feeling, tell a story, capture a moment, etc. • Have a form chosen to suit the purpose • Do not sacrifice meaning for rhyme • Include strong imagery • Are condensed and carefully crafted • Have strong verbs and precise nouns

6. Poems cont’ • Use poetic devices and language • Use line breaks, punctuation, and other surface features to enhance the purpose

7. Plays or Scripts • Follow the format for short stories(plot conflict, climax, etc.) • Have a clear purpose • Are organized into acts or scenes as transitional devices • Use effective, natural dialogue through which the characters are revealed • Use all conventions of drama, such as stage directions, scene setting, etc.