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A1 - Picture Book
Introduction to Writing for Children and Young Adults is a UBC course exploring various forms, genres, and topics in children's literature. Students will learn about writing for different age groups, character development, and storytelling techniques. The course includes lectures, group discussions, writing exercises, and collaborative editing. Three main assignments form the core of the coursework: a picture book, a climate writing piece, and an opening scene for a longer work. Additional components include a mock Instagram account and regular participation activities. The course aims to foster creativity, critical reading skills, and an understanding of the children's literature landscape.
Learning Objectives
- Identify various age groups, categories, and genres of writing for children.
- Understand the basics of structure, characterization, and language in writing for young readers.
- Create engaging and appropriate text for readers of different age groups, in both fiction and non-fiction.
- Read and reflect critically on published writing and apply those reflections to personal writing projects.
- Offer constructive feedback on written drafts and respond thoughtfully to feedback from others.
Additional Notes
- No textbooks required, but students must purchase a middle-grade or young adult novel from a provided list.
- Attendance and participation are essential, worth 15% of the final grade.
- Late assignments are penalized 5% per day, including weekends and holidays.
- The course has a zero-tolerance policy for academic misconduct, including plagiarism.
- Use of generative AI tools like ChatGPT is not allowed for assignments or assessments.
- Guest speaker session with picture book author Stephanie Ellen Sy.
- The course covers various topics including rhyme and wordplay, graphic novels, non-fiction writing, and current issues in children's literature.