Sessions

Write2Ignite Teen Track 

Write Like a Pro

 

Session One: Compelling Characters: More than Cardboard Cut-Outs

To create interesting characters, you need much more than physical description. Learn how to build real people, with real lives, and you’ll have real readers.

• In this class, students will have the opportunity to create a new character or develop more backstory and detail for a current character through Vonda’s 13-step Character Bio Sheet.

 

Session Two: Steering the Plot: What’s Driving Your Story?

The best cast of characters can’t carry your book alone. By learning how to incorporate the use of plot points, you’ll be able to give your characters—and your readers—the ride of their lives.

• Students will learn the terminology as well as the application of good plotting, including (but not limited to, of course) the inciting incident, the black moment, the character arc, the three-act structure, and The Hero’s Journey.

 

Session Three: Say What? Learn to Write Dialogue and Voice That Ring True

What comes out when your characters open their mouths? Do the words fit your character’s vocabulary, syntax, and backstory, or do they point to a misplaced voice?

• After learning the techniques of writing good dialogue, students will craft fresh dialogue of their own to share with the class.

 

Session Four: Five Fatal Flaws of Fiction

The competition is tough. Don’t let these five weaknesses mark you as a newbie and set you up for a knee-jerk rejection from the editor!

• In addition to learning the five weaknesses, students will also review examples from current contemporary books, adding practical application of their knowledge base.

 

Session Five: Special Guest Q & A with Chris Schweizer
Hear from industry professional, Chris Schweizer, illustrator and author of graphic stories. Bring your work and your questions and Vonda and Chris will help you navigate the world of writing.

• Then take the opportunity to share short excerpts from your work-in-progress.

 

 

Suggested books: Plot & Structure and Revision & Self-Editing by James Scott Bell, but please be sure they know they don’t have to read these books before the class. Thx!