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Creative Quests: An Introduction to the Writing of Fiction, Poetry & Scripts - CED00031C

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  • Department: Centre for Lifelong Learning
  • Module co-ordinator: Dr. Helen Kenwright
  • Credit value: 10 credits
  • Credit level: C
  • Academic year of delivery: 2022-23
    • See module specification for other years: 2023-24

Module summary

The module will introduce creative writing students to the main forms of imaginative writing: fictional prose; poetry; and scriptwriting. The reading of key literary texts for inspiration and guidance will be combined with opportunities for students to write frequently and to attempt forms they may not have tried before. Each week we will explore different techniques, developing skills not only in writing but also in critical analysis of texts. No previous literary knowledge is necessary, just the willingness to read and the imagination to write.

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Autumn Term 2022-23

Module aims

  • To introduce students to a range of writing forms: fictional prose, poetry and plays.
  • To facilitate an understanding of the main characteristics of the various forms.
  • To encourage appreciation and enthusiasm for the written and the spoken word.
  • To encourage students to write creatively and appropriately within the forms.
  • To begin to develop students' abilities in using language precisely in their imaginative writing.
  • To begin to develop students' abilities to critically evaluate their own writing and that of their fellow students.
  • To begin to develop students' confidence in their writing abilities.

Module learning outcomes

By the end of the module the student should:

  • Begin to understand a range of techniques and conventions found in the various forms of imaginative writing.
  • Have improved their writing abilities with regard to clarity and precision.
  • Be able to use the appropriate, relevant narrative or poetic techniques within the field they are writing in.
  • Have developed more confidence in their writing abilities.


And with regards to forms:

Understand the main elements of poetic writing:

  • Begin to explore and write a range of poetic forms
  • Begin to grasp rhyme and rhythm
  • Realise the notion of imagery and apply it.

Understand the main elements of the dramatic script writing:

  • Use dialogue
  • Grasp the notion of conflict
  • Understand how characterisation works
  • Recognise how plots develop.

Understand the main elements in writing short fiction:

  • Use dialogue
  • Use description
  • Grasp the notion of conflict
  • Use characterisation
  • Develop plots.

In addition the student will have a body of work making up a portfolio that covers fictional prose, poetry and scriptwriting.

Assessment

Task Length % of module mark
Essay/coursework
Creative portfolio (poetry, prose and scriptwriting)		 N/A 100

Special assessment rules

None

Reassessment

Task Length % of module mark
Essay/coursework
Creative portfolio (poetry, prose and scriptwriting)		 N/A 100

Module feedback

The tutor will give regular individual verbal and written feedback throughout the module on work submitted.

The assessment feedback is as per the university’s guidelines with regard to timings.

Indicative reading

  • Astley, Neil Staying Alive (Bloodaxe, 2002)
  • Ayckbourn, Alan The Crafty Art of Playmaking (Faber, 2002)
  • Bell, J & Magrs P The Creative Writing Coursebook (Macmillan, 2001)
  • Byatt, A S The Oxford Book of English Short Stories (Oxford, 1999, 2002)

As well as key texts studies in the various forms.

Other Resources:

  • Abigail's Party BBC DVD
  • www.bbc.co.uk/writersroom
  • www.poetrylibrary.org.uk
  • www.poetryarchive.org.uk


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University is constantly exploring ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary by the University. Where appropriate, the University will notify and consult with affected students in advance about any changes that are required in line with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.