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

July 15 - July 19 — 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

This summer writing camp will provide teens with an opportunity to explore the three main genres of creative writing--fiction, poetry and nonfiction--in the context of writing about nature and the environment. We’ll meet and learn from experts and front-line workers for the environment (biologists, botanists, conservationists) who will provide us with food for thought and fascinating facts to inspire our writing. We’ll look at some of the best nature writing out there—poetry, fiction, nonfiction. We’ll get out in nature ourselves to generate material for our own works of poetry, fiction and nonfiction. And we’ll write! We’ll brainstorm, engage in generative workshops and interactive exercises; we’ll learn new ways to approach writing about an ages-old relationship; we’ll practice strategies and skills to bring our own experiences about nature to life. Students can expect to leave camp with at least several pieces of writing in two of the three genres of their choice. 

No previous Creative Writing experience is assumed for this writing camp, nor is any experience in Environmental Science assumed. But this camp will be an equally good fit for teens who are new to Creative Writing, as well as for those who have Creative Writing experience, but want to explore other genres, or to take a deep dive into nature writing. This camp would also be a good fit for students who don’t necessarily consider themselves writers, but who enjoy the outdoors and want to explore it while improving their writing skills in a low-key, fun way. The skills learned in this camp will translate into improved confidence and performance in academic writing as well.

Students will

• Explore basic elements of poetry, fiction and nonfiction through interactive writing exercises on nature and the environment
• Be introduced to and learn from great models of nature writing 
• Learn about the environment—species, conservation, local biology, climate change issues—from front-line environmental workers, who will inspire our own writing.
• Produce their own fiction, non-fiction and poetry. 
• Receive constructive, ungraded feedback and guidance 
• Explore creatively with language and words.
• Develop confidence in the writing process and writing skills 
• Receive a course handbook with writing examples, exercises, tips and inspiration.