CREATIVE WRITING ASSIGNMENT

9^th-grade English

You have the option of writing a short story (fiction) or writing a memoir (nonfiction). Your final copy should be at least 2 typed pages (700 words).

Different writers begin stories in different ways. You will choose at least two prewriting assignments to help you get started. Feel free to build on any of the writing exercises you’ve already done for this class.

Prewriting:

A. Character sketch. Write a page describing a character (real or fictional). Think not only about external attributes (e.g., eye color, height, interesting mannerisms) but also about internal ones (hopes, dreams, fears). What makes your character ordinary? What makes him or her stand out? If you’re having trouble, you might write based on a photograph or painting. Once you’re done, list 5 things that would cause conflict for this character. Think about one you might choose to base a plot on.

B. Setting. Write a page about a place. Use as many vivid, specific details as possible, especially sensory details (dealing with the 5 senses). You can describe a place with which you’re very familiar or a place you’ve imagined. Try to bring it alive for the reader. Again, if you’re stuck for ideas, leafing through a magazine and looking for photographs can help provide ideas. Once you’re done, list 5 people who might be in that place and how they would feel about it.

C. Plot. Write a paragraph about an interesting series of events—conflict, crisis, and resolution. You might look in the newspaper or watch the news for a story that catches your imagination. This plot could be ordinary (something that happened to you or someone you know) or extraordinary (an outer space adventure). Once you’re done, list at least two characters who would take part in the plot and describe them briefly. Also list two possible scenes (specific events or encounters) that you would dramatize as part of your plot.

Step 1: Choose a prewriting assignment and do it.

Step 2: Choose a second prewriting assignment and do it.

Step 3: Write a complete draft of your story. Your final draft will contain dialogue, distinct scenes (not just summary), a plot (conflict, crisis, and resolution), a detailed setting.

Step 4: Revise your draft. Try showing it to a friend or parent for feedback. Proofread carefully, then turn it in. Don’t forget a title, and don’t forget to double space.

Name:________________________________________________

Period:_____

Date: _________________________

Story title: ________________________________________________________

Turn in your final copy, followed by your rough draft, followed by your prewriting. Stories submitted without this rubric on top will lose 5 points. There will be a penalty of 5 points off for every day late, with a maximum penalty of 30 points.

Short story rubric:

____ The author has given attention to the elements of creative writing (40 points)

--dialogue—is believable and furthers the plot or develops characters

--setting—is described using vivid imagery

--plot/conflict—is believable and resolved by the end of the story; developed both through narration and dramatization

--characters—are described through direct and indirect methods

____ The story is original and holds the reader’s interest (20 points)

____ The story is free of errors in spelling, grammar, and punctuation (20 points)

____ The story shows evidence of thoughtful revision (20 points)

--The author has included prewriting and a rough draft.

--The author has produced a final draft based on the previous work.

____ Total (100 points)

____ Grade

Comments:

Please consider submitting your story to the Raleigh Fine Arts Literary Contest. You could win money and fame! Deadline is January 24.

Squonk, the R.C.H.S. literary magazine, will be accepting submissions until mid-February.