Course Catalogue

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The course, offered as an alternative to the Honours English Literature Dissertation, focuses on developing the writing techniques and critical faculties involved in undertaking an individual research project through creative writing. Delivered through workshops and supervisions, topics covered include planning, experimentation and idea generation, structure, voice, process, procedure and strategies for editing and redrafting material. The specifics of the course respond to the individual creative projects of students enrolled.

2 x 2hr workshops, as scheduled on MyCampus, and 3 x 30min supervision sessions, TBA

Successful completion of Junior Honours English Literature, English Language or Scottish Literature and completion of ENGLIT9001P  Portfolio application for Creative Writing Dissertation.

ENGLIT4024P Creative Writing Dissertation (30 credits)

ENGLIT4080 and ENGLIT4120 Hybrid Forms

n/a

The standard assessments for this course are: 

■ Dissertation, taking the form of a portfolio of creative writing: 12,000 words prose; or a max of 25 poems (with the max lines of poetry being 300 lines - these two figures work together); or 30-40 minutes of script: 90%

■ Portfolio proposal (2,000 words): 10%

If required, for instance where a disability prevents a student from undertaking a specific method of assessment, the following alternatives are available: 

■ There are no alternatives to the assessments, but flexible deadlines can be offered as reasonable adjustment (Students should follow the usual process for extensions). 

Further reasonable adjustments may be provided where necessary. Students are encouraged to consult with the course convenor.  

This course will provide the opportunity to:

• undertake a sustained piece of creative writing (or sequence of shorter works)

• become familiar with key decisions regarding genre, form and structure of creative writing

• provide constructive feedback to peers through writing workshops

• work closely with a practicing writer as a supervisor

• experiment with writing processes and methodologies

•develop close reading skills from a writer's perspective

By the end of this course students will be able to:

• plan and structure an extended creative text (or a sequence of shorter works)

• use the forms, structures and techniques of effective creative writing

• edit their own work using skills and techniques developed through the workshops

•develop individual processes and methodologies of writing appropriate to the project undertaken.