AMU1314 - Writing techniques: Forms and literary devices - 2019

The unit covers a range of compositional techniques used in prose fiction. The weekly topics are organised around exercises designed to develop skills in effective use of creative detail, in conscious crafting of formal elements or writing techniques (e.g. building character, developing storyline, describing place, cultivating writing style or voice, identifying a narrative structure, etc.), and in preparation and editing of copy for publication. Various samples of reading materials (esp. short stories, excerpts from novels, graphic novels, fan-fiction etc.) will also be introduced to demonstrate how effectively different writers deploy these techniques.

Upon successful completion of the unit, students will be able to:

1. identify and use a range of practices and techniques in contemporary writing through reading, analysis and practice;
2. communicate in a range literary and other forms and for a variety of audiences;
3. edit, proof and prepare copy for publication;
4. review and critique the work of peers as a member of an online writing group.

Within semester assessment: 100%

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. A unit requires on average three/four hours of scheduled activities per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.

See also Unit timetable information

Writing