PROCESS, PRACTICE AND PRODUCT 2.

PROCESS, PRACTICE AND PRODUCT 2.

Module Level: 2

Module Leader: Martin Pugmire

Module Credit Value: 10 Credit Points

Recommended Prior Knowledge: None

Aims

This module, like other Creative Writing modules, is offered on the proposition that one of the best ways to appreciate the possibilities, techniques and modes of meaning of literary and associated text is to explore these matters through realistically pitched attempts at production, in conjunction with the consideration of models. It therefore aims to explore with the student a range of the possibilities, techniques and challenges associated with writing creatively in prose narrative, short poetry and dramatic (including televisual and film) dramatic action, and to associate this challenge with significant though no doubt limited success.

Creative Writing 2 and Creative Writing 3 are conceived as twin opportunities for the student to study and explore in this area. While it is expected that many students will take both modules successively, either can be taken individually, and the learning experience they will then offer will differ only in the examples and aspects of technique studied. Students taking both modules will hopefully be able to develop their individual skills and insights in this area further than they would if taking only one of them, though of course both modules are offered at the same academic level (2).

No attempt has been made to limit the consideration of prose narrative, drama or poetry to one of the two modules concerned, since it is considered that the developing awareness of the distinctive qualities and opportunities of the three varieties of writing is a valuable asset in creative work.

Indicative Content

Broadly, time will be divided equally between the study of models in a variety of genres, exhibiting a range of techniques and considering the consequences of such factors in perceived meaning, and in exploring the possibilities through writing material in various genres. Balance will also be achieved in work upon each of the three broad varieties of writing dealt with.

a range of kinds of writing will be explored by example different genres within the three broad varieties of writing considered
consideration will be given to the appropriateness of techniques studied to different authorial goals
throughout, emphasis will be placed on enabling methodology rather than exploration of difficulties.
a module handbook will provide a wide range of models to be explored for technical features and for the relationship between methodology and apparent intended authorial goals.
A wide range of models will be offered in a module handbook.

Learning Outcomes

At the end of the module each student should be able to:

articulate many of the possibilities in terms of effect and meaning associated with the use if different genres and varieties of writing
utilise a range of the techniques explored, and/or other techniques that the student feels are appropriate, to produce substantial and effective text in at least two of the three varieties of text dealt with.

Teaching and Learning Strategies.

Central activities will be:

The consideration of models which are suggestive of techniques appropriate to the adult learner in writing
exploration of co-operative techniques in the generation of text.
individual work in the writing of verse and prose-narrative text
analysis in class group and individual situations off that text

Assessment Strategies.

The module will be assessed by

the submission of text in at least two of the varieties dealt with.
commentary upon the effect of authorial decisions in creating the meaning and effectiveness of these examples of text
a 2000 essay on the possibilities of a chosen variety or genre of writing.

Bibliography

Required Reading
Extracts supplied by the tutor/ tutors.

Recommended Reading
Cooper, D., A First Guide To Writing Screenplays, (Prentice-Hall, 1997)
Kenworthy, C., Writing Science-fiction, Fantasy & Horror, (How To Books, 1997)
Moss, D., Writing & Selling Short Stories, (How To Books, (1997)
Parrott, E.O. (ed), How To Be Well-versed in Poetry, (Penguin, 1990)
Sellers, S., Taking Reality By Surprise: Writing for Pleasure and Publication, (Women’s Press, 1991)
“ ” Instead of Full-Stops: A Guide To Writing and Publishing, (Women’s Press, 1996)
Straczynski, J.M. The Complete Book of Scriptwriting, (Writer’s Digest, 1996)
Wade, S., Writing & Publishing Poetry, (How To Books, 1997)

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