Writing Short Stories

Overview

Have you ever thought of writing a short story, but the “shortness” presents you with particular problems? Then this module is for you. As well as developing the knowledge and skills in aspects and techniques of short story writing, you will learn from the reading and analysis of published short stories. You will also have the opportunity to give and receive constructive criticism regarding the evolution of your own work and that of others. Students will be encouraged to keep a notebook as their repository of ideas. 
 
This course is suitable for beginners who might be trying to write creatively for the first time and for more experienced writers who are keen to develop new techniques and improve their writing skills further.

 
Programme

Activities and tasks will be embedded into each unit so students can practise the techniques they have learned and develop their skills. Students will be encouraged to share their own work and participate in discussions. 

1. The differences between the novel and short story writing. The importance of keeping a notebook.
2. Reading selected texts; what can we discover?
3. Learning to read as a writer; an analysis of the techniques and solutions. displayed by selected published writers.
4. Elements of the short story.
5. Plot - “Hooking” the reader.
6. Character – ways of developing a character – engaging with the reader.
7. Point of View – who is telling the story, to whom and with what agenda?
8. Structure – Getting the right balance of setting character and plot.
9. Language - what is good and what to avoid in dialogue, the use of tense.
10. Editing your work. Giving and receiving criticism of own and others’ work Dealing with rejection. 

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this module, students should be able to:  

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the specific methods and techniques required to write short stories.
2. Identify specific elements of the short story in published works.
3. Record their own ideas in a notebook.
4. Review and edit their work.
5. Produce a finished short story.
6. Give and receive constructive criticism on own work and other’s work. 

Assessments

1. Short story (1600 words) (70% of the overall mark) 
2. Critical reflective commentary 400 words (40% of the overall mark) 

Reading Suggestions

Reading suggestions will be offered throughout the course. 

Entry Requirements

This course is for everyone. No previous experience is needed and there are no formal entry requirements.

What Do I Need?

As this is an online course, you would need the following:

• Internet access
• Access to a laptop or computer with a web camera and microphone; the use of headphones might also be of benefit
• Use of the Chrome web-browser where possible.