Writing short stories – The art of conciseness or how to convert ideas into compelling short stories

Kontext / Contexte

Forget the endless planning and dive straight into creativity with these bite-sized wonders. Short stories provide a clear structure, guiding students from start to finish while unlocking their creative potential.
It's a playful way to learn the art of structuring ideas and narratives. Initially hesitant, students gradually gain confidence as they progress, experiencing a sense of accomplishment in a short span of time.
So grab those pens and let the storytelling magic begin!

Zielsetzung / Objectifs

Knowledge
The participants will be familiar with:
- the concept of a short story
- the different types of short stories
- a clear short story structure to be used in class
- techniques to unblock creativity.

Know-how
Participants will be able to:
- apply the structure by writing their own short story
- supervise students during exercises
- evaluate students without judging their creations
- use writing techniques to stimulate their own creativity.

Approach
Participants are encouraged to:
- detach themselves from their own obstacles to creativity
- put themselves in the shoes of a student
- encourage a caring and respectful attitude toward others, while creating an environment of trust and active listening during the exercises
- respect the "intimate" side of writing
- take part in exercises.

Multiple objectives:
- develop creative writing thanks to a structured approach
- develop creativity
- learn to structure ideas in a coherent way
- develop self-confidence through writing
- learn to speak in front of an audience.

Inhalt / Contenu

How does short story writing fit in with the logic of formative assessment?
- What is a short story?
* the principles behind short stories
* develop creativity by following a pre-defined structure
* creating a climate of trust to encourage students to express themselves

- Short stories: theory and practical exercises

- how to assess your students?

- what to do if a student runs out of ideas?

The exercises will vary according to the student’s level: primary, secondary education or students with difficulties.

Arbeitsformen / Approche méthodologique

- Brief theoretical approach
- Writing exercises will illustrate the theory allowing teachers to experience the process and difficulties students might encounter
- Sharing best practice

Referent, Referentin / Formateur, formatrice

Fabienne Decembry, published author, creative writing workshop facilitator, Masters degree in commercial and consular sciences