Online Creative Writing - Short Stories (OL12N73E)
The skill of a short story is creating an impact in a small space. Whether writing for pleasure or to submit your work, you will learn how to construct a measured piece of believable fiction, where every word will earn its place in your story.
Course overview
Short stories are different from other types of creative writing. The plot, characters, message and mood you want your readers to enjoy, must make an impact in a small space so every word must earn its place in your story.
Whether you are writing for pleasure and well-being, or to submit your work to competitions or for publication, you will learn how to construct a measured work of fiction.
Where This is an online course.
When
Tuesday, 7:00pm - 9:00pm from 10th May 2022 until 5th July 2022 for 8 weeks.
NO CLASS: 31st May (Half Term)
Cost The full fee is £108.00.
The concessionary fee is £55.00.
During the course
Learning online:
This is an online course or has online lessons, which will be taught in real time using a video platform (usually Google Meet), supported by other online resources. To ensure you get the most out of the course and can fully participate in the sessions you will interact with your tutor and other students through speaking, listening and the chat function, as well as being able to see each other via the video links, though you can turn off your camera and microphone at any time. You will therefore need to have access to either a laptop, computer or portable device (eg tablet or iPad) (this ideally needs to be less than 5 years old), with a camera / webcam and microphone, as well as a good broadband / Wi-Fi connection. Please note that using a mobile phone is not recommended as due to the small screen it can be difficult to see text and images displayed during the session and you may not be able to view or access some resources.
More information about how to access your online course, online etiquette, digital safe practice, health and safety will be sent to you when you enrol and can be viewed on the ACRES website.
Policy & Procedures
What you already need to know
You do not need previous knowledge just a keenness to tell a story and a passion for reading. New and returning learners are welcome to attend.
What you will learn
- Exploring different sources of inspiration to get your ideas flowing - overcoming the blank page
- Know your audience - research competition requirements
- Create characters with depth in compelling settings - character and plot arc
- Set the scene - it's all in the detail
- Show and tell - what's the difference and how it can elevate your writing
- Snappy dialogue - get to the point
- The importance of beginnings, middles and endings
- Edit, edit, edit!
- Submitting your work, receiving feedback and where to go from here
If you have attended this course previously you will further develop your skills as you delve deeper into the details of your stories.
How you will learn it
Using the online medium you will learn directly from your tutor as well as through presentations, videos, online resources and group discussion. You will have plenty of opportunity to develop your writing skills and your tutor will give you guidance and feedback.
- By practising the craft of writing in class and at home
- Through participating in writing activities, discussions, sensory workshops and small group work that will encourage you to establish and develop the fundamental skills of creative writing.
- By considering the work of established writers as inspiration for your own writing.
- By sharing your work and discussing both your own and your fellow students' development
Lisa Hilton has a Masters Degree in Creative Writing from Manchester Metropolitan University and has written a number of short stories, columns, press releases and blog articles.
Bring to the first session
A notebook, pens and a passion for reading and writing.
Extra study or practice
There will be opportunities for you to continue with your writing themes in your own time. You will find this supports your writing skills and develops your individual projects. You will also be encouraged to read widely, both fiction and non-fiction.
How to enrol
You can enrol by phoning ACRES' House on 01825 761820 on Monday to Friday between 9:30 am and 4 pm. Alternatively, to register your interest in a course please email
adultlearning@acres.org.uk with the course title and your contact details and a member of the team will call you back to enrol you on your chosen course.
Previous students say
"Covid changed so many things for me and capturing my thoughts and reflections in words, on all the changes I have been through, has been incredibly therapeutic. Thank you Lisa."
"This course gave me so much to think about. I came away each week with my head bursting with ideas."
"Lisa encouraged me out of my comfort zone to discover new genres I never would have tried before."
"The process is strangely liberating."
Additional Course Information
- Concessionary/reduced fees, are available to students in receipt of certain means-tested benefits on some courses.
- Course fees over £133, can be paid in one single payment at enrolment or in instalments by Standing Order where applicable.
- Fees and payment options: See the Financial Support page.
- Other course related information: See the Policies & Procedures page, or contact the ACRES office.
Next steps within this subject with ACRES
Creative Writing classes will continue online in the Autumn term. Look out for the next online brochure.
Future steps beyond ACRES
Find out about other courses with the
National Careers Service for opportunities to extend your skills and knowledge
