An Introduction to Genre

Overview  

This course is an introduction to writing creatively in various fictional genres. The course will examine: what is genre and what do different genres offer a writer?   
Using a variety of fictional texts, students will learn to recognise the features and functions of different types of genre fiction. Students will be encouraged to explore and experiment creatively with a range of material and techniques. The course will cover, but is not restricted to, the following genres: crime fiction, historical fiction, horror, romance and science fiction and fantasy.   
It 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 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 on Blackboard. Alongside the learning materials on Blackboard the tutor will be on hand via email to answer any queries and provide guidance throughout the course. They will also participate in the online discussions.    

• Unit 1 – Introduction  
• Unit 2 – What is Genre?  
• Unit 3 – Crime Fiction   
• Unit 4 – Historical Fiction  
• Unit 5 – Horror   
• Unit 6 – Romance  
• Unit 7 – Science Fiction and Fantasy   

Learning Outcomes 

• On completion of this module, students should be able to:   
• Demonstrate an understanding of what a genre is and be able to identify various fictional genres.   
• Analyse a range of relevant genre writings and identify different features, techniques and functions.   
• Apply, and experiment with, different literary genres and their identifiable creative writing features and techniques.   
• Critically reflective on their own creative process and outputs, and that of others .  

Assessments 

1. Written piece of genre fiction (1200 words; 60% of overall mark)  
2. Critical reflective commentary (800 words; 40% of overall mark)

Reading Suggestions 

Reading suggestions will be offered throughout the course.

Enquiry 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.