Intro to Creative Writing I - Eco-Writing (Sr. Level: Rising 10-12 Graders)

July 20 - July 24— 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Write about the world you love! 

This summer camp introduces students to the basics of creative writing—fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction—with a concentration on the exciting and dynamic area of eco-writing. 

Camp time will be spent in a combination of field trips to natural areas where we’ll collect observations and material for our writing, balanced with classroom/workshop time where we’ll brainstorm, engage in interactive exercises and learn writing skills to bring our experiences with nature to life through fiction, poetry and non-fiction. 

No previous Creative Writing experience is assumed for this writing camp: we’ll teach the basics. This camp is an equally good fit for teens new to Creative Writing, as well as for those who have experience, but want to explore other genres or to take a deeper dive into nature writing. 

This camp is also a good fit for students who don’t necessarily consider themselves writers, but who enjoy the outdoors and want to improve their writing in a low-key, fun, interactive environment. The skills learned in this camp will translate into improved confidence and performance in academic writing.

Students will

• Explore basic elements of poetry, fiction and nonfiction (plot, imagery, descriptive writing, characterization) through fun, interactive writing exercises.
• Explore the natural world through writing and field trips.
• Compose several pieces of writing in fiction, non-fiction or poetry. 
• Receive constructive, ungraded guidance and feedback as they learn skills to hone their writing. 
• Explore creatively with language and words.
• Develop confidence in their writing process and writing skills 
• Receive a course handbook with writing examples, exercises, tips and inspiration.