Beginning Writer’s Workshop Module 1
Basic Story Structure
Every good book starts with an idea, observation, dream or experience. In this module, we discuss the importance of using accurate sources for material. We find out about story and plot, and we discuss ways to put together a story and plot to make a great novel. We also cover the differences between the two and how to create a logical pattern and outline for your story.
- Locating Sources for Material
- Keeping a Journal or Writer’s Notebook
- Story & Plot: What’s the Difference?
- Story Patterns
- Outlining Your Story
Beginning Writer’s Workshop Module 2
Developing Characters, Settings and Scenes
The way your characters look and act, and the name you give them, can help you tell your readers a great deal about the characters’ personalities. This week we will work on developing personalities, adding physical features and fleshing out specific details about your characters. We will also discuss setting and the way it interacts with plot, how to choose a setting that’s right for you, and how to research your chosen setting.
- Developing Personalities
- Adding Physical Features & Names
- Flesh Out Your Characters & Turn Them Loose
- Choosing the Right Setting for You
- Tips for Working with Scenes
Beginning Writer’s Workshop Module 3
Points of View, Dialogue and Voice
How you work with plot, scenes, and characters is determined by the point of view you choose for your novel. In this section, we look at the different points of view available, along with their positive and negative aspects. We also recognize what makes for good dialogue and tips for perfecting it.
- Different Points of View
- How to Work with Points of View
- The Importance of Good Dialogue
- Tips for Writing Dialogue
- Paying Attention to Voice
Beginning Writer’s Workshop Module 4
Language, Revision and Proofreading
This week, we talk about effective ways to work with active verbs and descriptions. Because wordiness can be a problem for every writer, we go over tips for discovering and eliminating verbiage in your novel writing. After a writer finishes every single piece of work, the time comes to start revising it. We will work through the stages of revision that are necessary to make your novel even better.
- Active & Descriptive Words
- Variations on Sentence Structure
- Tips for Revising Your Manuscript
- Focus on Beginnings & Endings
- Proofreading Tips