### Lesson 1: Introduction to Creative Writing

**Objective:**
Introduce the student to the basics of creative writing, focusing on narrative structure,
character development, and descriptive language.

1. Introduction
- The purpose of creative writing

- The narrative structure

Narrative structure in creative writing refers to the framework that underlies the order
and manner in which a story is presented to a reader. It includes several key elements:
1. Exposition: Introduces background information, such as setting, characters, and initial
conflicts.
2. Rising Action: Builds tension through a series of events and complications that lead
to the story's climax.
3. Climax: The turning point or most intense moment in the story, where the main
conflict reaches its peak.
4. Falling Action: Events that unfold after the climax, leading towards resolution.
5. Resolution (or Denouement): The conclusion of the story, where conflicts are
resolved, and the story comes to a satisfying end.

Different narrative structures may vary, such as linear, non-linear, or circular, but they all
serve to organize the story and engage the reader.

Linear Narrative Example

Beginning: Jack wakes up on his birthday, excited for the surprise party his friends have
planned.
Middle: Throughout the day, he encounters various hints about the party, but things keep
going wrong—his car breaks down, and he misses a crucial meeting.
End: Despite the setbacks, Jack finally arrives at the party, and his friends reveal the
surprises they had in store, making it a memorable day.

Non-linear Narrative Example

Scene 1: Jack arrives at a surprise birthday party, overwhelmed with joy.
Scene 2: Flashback to earlier in the day when Jack's car breaks down on the way to work.
Scene 3: Jump to the night before, showing Jack's friends planning the party.
Scene 4: Return to the party, where Jack reflects on the day's events, appreciating the
effort his friends put in.

In the non-linear narrative, the story jumps around in time, creating a complex and layered
experience.
Circular Narrative Example
Beginning and End: Emma sits on the park bench, watching the sunrise. She reflects on
the changes in her life.
Middle: The story flashes back to a year ago when Emma first moved to the city. She
struggles to adjust, facing challenges at work and in her personal life.
Return to Beginning: As the narrative progresses, Emma overcomes these challenges and
grows more confident. The story circles back to the park bench, where she realizes how
much she has changed since that first sunrise.

In a circular narrative, the story ends where it began, highlighting character growth and
the passage of time.

In Medias Res Narrrative Example

In creative writing, a narrative structure that begins with a situation is often called "in
medias res," which means "in the middle of things." This approach starts the story in the
midst of action, capturing the reader's interest immediately, and then provides
background information as needed.

The sirens wailed as Sarah sprinted through the crowded streets, clutching the
mysterious envelope. She didn't dare look back, knowing the agents were close
behind. Just an hour ago, she had been sipping coffee, unaware of the chaos about
to unfold.
2. Story Excerpt Analysis
- Read a short story excerpt together.

____________________________________________________________________________________________
**The Winning Goal**

Liam stood on the edge of the field, the sun setting behind him, casting long shadows
across the grass. The final match of the season was tied, and his team, the Eagles,
needed one more goal to secure the championship. His heart raced with excitement
and nerves.

Coach Patel called out, "Liam, you're up!" With a nod, Liam jogged onto the field, the
cheers of the crowd echoing in his ears. He focused on the ball, feeling the energy of
his teammates around him.

The whistle blew, and the game was back in motion. The opposing team was strong,
but the Eagles were determined. Liam darted past defenders, his feet moving with
practiced precision. Then, he saw his chance—his teammate, Max, passed the ball
perfectly.

Liam took a deep breath and shot. The ball sailed through the air, curving just right.
Time seemed to slow as the goalie lunged, but it was too late. The ball hit the back
of the net.

The crowd erupted in cheers. Liam's teammates surrounded him, their excitement
infectious. He had done it—the winning goal. As he looked around at their smiling
faces, he knew this moment would stay with him forever.
____________________________________________________________________________________________

- Discuss key elements: setting, characters, plot.

Setting

Characters

Plot
3. Character Development Activity
- Introduce character development with examples.

Character Development: Liam

1. Background:
- Name: Liam Thompson
- Age: 13
- Hobbies: Passionate about soccer, enjoys reading adventure novels.

2. Personality Traits:
- Determined: Never gives up, even when facing challenges.
- Team Player: Values collaboration and supports his teammates.
- Resilient: Bounces back quickly from setbacks.

3. Goals and Motivations:

- Short-term Goal: Win the championship for his team.
- Long-term Goal: Become a professional soccer player.
- Motivation: Inspired by his older brother, a former soccer star.

4. Challenges:
- Internal: Struggles with self-doubt and performance anxiety.
- External: Faces tough competition and a skilled opposing team.

5. Growth:
- Journey: Learns to manage his nerves and trust in his abilities.
- Outcome: Gains confidence and leadership skills through his experiences on the field.

Guidelines for Character Development

1. Create Backstory: Give your character a history that influences their motivations and
actions.
o Example: Jane grew up in a small town with dreams of becoming a journalist,
shaping her determination.
2. Define Goals and Motivations: Understand what drives your character.
o Example: Tom is motivated by a desire to prove himself after being
underestimated his whole life.
3. Show Growth and Change: Allow your character to evolve throughout the story.
o Example: Lily starts as a timid artist but gains confidence after her work is
publicly recognized.
4. Use Flaws and Strengths: Make your character relatable by balancing their qualities.
o Example: Max is charming and witty but struggles with trust issues due to past
betrayals.
5. Develop Relationships: Show how interactions with others affect your character.
 o Example: Anna's friendship with her neighbor helps her overcome her fear of
loneliness.
6. Create Conflict: Put your character in challenging situations to reveal their true nature.
o Example: Facing a moral dilemma, Sarah must choose between loyalty to her
family and her own values.
o
Examples
Example 1: Backstory and Motivation
 Character: Alex
 Backstory: Grew up in a family of musicians but pursued engineering to forge his
own path.
 Motivation: Prove to himself and his family that he can succeed in a different field.
Example 2: Growth and Change
 Character: Mia
 Start: Overly reliant on others for validation.
 End: Learns self-worth and becomes independent after traveling solo.
Example 3: Flaws and Relationships
 Character: Ben
 Flaw: Impulsive decision-making.
 Relationship: His partner, who is patient and thoughtful, balances his impulsiveness,
leading to mutual growth.

Developing well-rounded characters involves weaving these elements into your narrative to
create depth and engagement.
Character creation

Character 1

Character 2

Character 3
 - Complete a character profile:

Name Own preference

Age From visual
Appearance From visual
Personality Traits Flaws & Strengths
Growth & Change

Hobbies & Backstory

Interests Goals & Motivation

Challenges or Goals & Motivation

Goals Relationship
Conflicts
4. **Descriptive Language Exercise
- The importance of descriptive language.
- Examples of vivid descriptions.
____________________________________________________________________________________________
**The Decisive Goal**

Liam stood poised on the edge of the pitch, the sun setting behind him, casting
elongated shadows across the verdant field. The championship match was
precariously tied, and his team, the Eagles, needed one decisive goal to clinch victory.
His heart pounded with a mix of anticipation and anxiety.

Coach Patel's voice rang out, "Liam, you're in!" With determination, Liam sprinted
onto the field, the roar of the crowd resonating in his ears. He centered his focus on
the ball, sensing the collective energy of his teammates.

The shrill whistle pierced the air, signaling the game's continuation. The opposition
was formidable, yet the Eagles were resolute. Liam weaved through defenders with
agility, his feet a blur of practiced finesse. Then, an opportunity presented itself—his
teammate, Max, delivered a precise pass.

Drawing a deep breath, Liam executed the shot. The ball soared gracefully, its
trajectory impeccably curved. Time seemed to suspend as the goalkeeper dove, but
it was futile. The ball thudded into the back of the net.

The stadium erupted in jubilant cheers. Liam's teammates swarmed around him, their
exhilaration palpable. He had achieved it—the decisive goal. As he absorbed their
joyous faces, he knew this triumphant moment would be etched in his memory
forever.
____________________________________________________________________________________________

Guidelines for Descriptive Language

1. Use the Five Senses: Encourage students to incorporate sight, sound, smell, taste, and
touch to create vivid imagery.
o Example: "The aroma of freshly baked bread wafted through the kitchen, warm and
inviting."
2. Show, Don’t Tell: Illustrate emotions and settings through actions and details rather
than direct statements.
o Example: Instead of saying "She was scared," use "Her hands trembled as she reached
for the doorknob."
3. Use Metaphors and Similes: Enhance descriptions with creative comparisons.
o Example: "The night sky was a velvet blanket studded with diamonds."
4. Vary Sentence Structure: Mix short and long sentences to create rhythm and
emphasis.
o Example: "The forest was silent. Leaves rustled softly underfoot, whispering secrets."
5. Choose Precise Words: Select specific and vivid words to paint clear pictures.
o Example: "The ancient oak tree stood gnarled and imposing, its branches twisting like
arthritic fingers."
6. Utilize Strong Verbs: Opt for dynamic verbs to convey action and intensity.
o Example: "The storm battered the tiny fishing village, waves crashing against the
shore."
Activities to Practice Descriptive Language
 Sensory Writing Exercise: Have students describe a place or event using all five senses.
 Show, Don’t Tell Activity: Provide sentences to transform from "telling" to "showing."
 Metaphor and Simile Creation: Encourage writing practice by creating their own
comparisons.

- Write a descriptive paragraph about the character or setting you created above, focusing
on sensory details.
5. Writing Exercise (15 minutes)
- The student writes a short scene with their character, incorporating the setting and
descriptive language.
- Encourage creativity and use of dialogue.

6. Self-Reflection and Revision

- Read their scene aloud.
- Self-reflection: What works well? What could be improved?
- Assist in revising and enhancing their writing.

7. Wrap-Up and Reflection

- Key points covered in the lesson.

Narrative structure:
 Linear
 Non-Linear
 Circular
 In Medias Res

Character Development:
 Backstory
 Goals & Motivation
 Growth & Change
 Flaws & Strengths
 Relationships
 Conflicts

Descriptive Language
 Five senses
 Show, don’t tell
 Metaphors & Similes
 Vary Sentence Structure
 Precise Words
 Strong Verbs

Homework: Expand their scene into a short story outline.