English 309

ENGL 309 (WI) (GE) 
Fiction Writing

Catalog Entry

ENGL 309. Fiction Writing (WI) (GE)
Three hours lecture (3).

Prerequisite: ENGL 111 and ENGL 112. 

For student who plans to teach creative writing at secondary level and needs introduction to fiction writing methods; for student who, regardless of background and vocational plans, is interested in developing fiction writing potential or improving writing skills; or for student of literature interested in writing fiction and sharpening critical appreciation.

Note(s): General Education and Humanistic or Artistic Expression designated course.

Detailed Description of Content of Course

ENGL 309 combines elements of a writing class and a literary studies class. Students read relevant materials, both expository essays and short fiction, from a methods text to develop an understanding of key issues in the construction of fiction, such as character development, plot, setting, point of view, structure, and language. In addition to this, students engage in a variety of writing exercises, from character sketches to fully developed short stories.

Detailed Description of Conduct of Course

ENGL 309 follows primarily a discussion/workshop format. Students read and discuss expository essays on the writing of fiction and a sampling of illustrative short stories. Students are further introduced to the fundamental tools, techniques and goals of fiction writing. Also, students participate in workshops of their own fiction and that of their classmates, gaining facility in the crucial writerly skills of close reading of a text, clear analysis, lucid presentation of critique, understanding of the goals of a story and how that is accomplished, understanding of audience, and recognition of the importance of a collegial work environment in the development of a writer.

Goals and Objectives of Course

The goals of this course are to teach students the basic techniques and elements fundamental to the fiction writing process and to develop critical faculties necessary to produce and assess fiction.

Assessment Measures

ENGL 309 uses a variety of assessment measures, which may include a number of the following:

• a number of short stories written during the semester
• various informal writing exercises
• character sketches
• plot analyses
• informal discussion/focus questions
• journals and logs
• examinations and quizzes
• writing portfolios
• class/workshop participation

Other Course Information

Review and Approval

October, 2009

March 01, 2021