Time Schedule:
Joanne Marcia Silberner
COM 459
Seattle Campus
Introduces the rigorous reporting and literary writing techniques involved in narrative journalism. Concentrates on producing three narrative articles for publication in the online, reader-interactive magazine, Narrative Journalist.
Class description
The nature of narrative journalism, and how to do it.
Student learning goals
Through readings and class discussions you'll develop the critical skills necessary to evaluate various types of narrative journalism.
Through writing exercises and class discussions, you'll learn how to produce publishable material.
You'll learn basic writing tools to help you with story construction.
You'll pick up some tricks of the trade, like how to deal with writer's block.
Through critical reading you'll learn how to make your writing relevant in a world of diverse opinions.
General method of instruction
There will be a few short lectures on specific topics such as story construction and interview techniques, but we'll focus primarily on discussions of readings and writing assignments. You'll get feedback from me as well as through peer review.
Recommended preparation
You should come to class having some basic grounding in language and grammar. Previous journalistic experience is not necessary.
Class assignments and grading
There will be three writing assignments spread through the term -- a profile of a place in Seattle, a memoir, and something that often escapes notice. (If you've got other ideas, that's fine too.) There may be one or two one-question take-home quizzes early on.
Grades will be based on the three writing assignments, the short take-home quizzes, and class participation.
