UTA Class: Plot and Structure for Your Novel: Novel Writing Unit 5 – LIVE WEBCAST

How do you go from having a series of scenes to something that makes sense as a novel? In this course, students will delve into structure and discover if their work in progress has enough (or too much complexity). They will also learn how to handle subplots, manage the passage of time and let character motivation make the plot relatable. The class will break down story acts and discuss the purpose of each. It will also cover pacing the story, how many scenes and viewpoints a particular story can handle. It will look at beat sheets and several types of plot diagrams, to see different ways of finding the important emotional turning points in a story. Students will practice writing transitions and turning points.

Material covered relates to modern writing theory, and discusses the structure of recently published works, and is suitable for students writing in all genres, including both commercial and literary fiction. The teaching method accommodates the needs of students who want to shape their work for publication, as well as those who are writing to create an heirloom, or for personal fulfilment. The instructor has published in both science fiction and mystery, and critiques manuscript partials in a number of genres for major writing conferences.

This is a hands-on class, with writing assignments (in-class and as homework) and assignments to apply observation skills to the real world and to evaluate elements of other books, films, etc. Students will have the opportunity to have samples of their work critiqued each week. Worksheets used in this course series are from the instructor’s textbook, Story Like a Journalist: a Workbook for Novelists. This book applies the 5-Ws and H from journalism theory to creating a deep story world with people and events that feel real enough to have been ripped from the headlines. The textbook is not required, but is recommended.

NOTE for Novel Writing Unit Classes: These topical modules do not have to be taken in order. Take them all or focus on the skills you need.