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Course Descriptions

Currently accepting registrations Register now >> Next program starts: Autumn 2008 Program location: UW campus, Seattle Next information meeting: Wed., Aug. 6 (see details >>) Sign up to receive e-mail updates >> Contact a program representative >>

Interested in taking a single class? Some courses (designated by a below) may be open on a space-available basis to individuals who are not seeking the certificate. See Single-Course Enrollment for details.

Autumn Course

Writing for Children: Foundations

Schedule: Reg #88248. UW campus, Seattle, Tuesdays, 6:30-9:30 p.m., Sept. 30 - Dec. 9, 2008 (no class Nov. 11); $575; 3 CEUs. Instructor: Kathryn O. Galbraith

Have you always wanted to write for children, but didn't know where to start? This class gives you the opportunity to experiment and sample the field as you develop stories of your own. Students explore children's fiction and nonfiction, including picture books, chapter books, middle-grade books, and books for young adults. Such essential elements as plot, character, setting, dialogue and that all-important first chapter are part of the focus. Guest authors share their unique perspectives on the writing process. All you need is paper, pencil and the courage to begin.

Winter Course

Writing for Children: Intermediate

Schedule: UW campus, Seattle, Tuesdays, 6:30-9:30 p.m., Jan.6 - Mar.10, 2009; $575; 3 CEUs. Instructor: Margaret H. Lippert

Students develop a clear sense of their own direction in writing for children, as they choose subjects and use a variety of techniques to enhance their writing, including research and reflection about their responses to books for children. They explore the challenges related to the beginning, middle and end of stories, and focus on the craft of revising stories. Published writers of children's books discuss a variety of genres, how they research their subjects, and how they revise their work.

How to sign up for individual enrollment in this course

Spring Course

Writing for Children: Capstone

Schedule: UW campus, Seattle, Tuesdays, 6:30-9:30 p.m., Mar. 31 - June 2, 2009; $575; 3 CEUs. Instructor: Brenda Z. Guiberson

Students explore inner resources to strengthen their creative voice, with an emphasis on the long, quiet phase of writing and rewriting that everyone must do on their own. They complete investigative projects to enrich, enliven and expand their writing. Discussions are held on research, the visual side of writing, contracts, editors, agents and other topics. Guest speakers are featured. Critiquing is also an important part of the curriculum.

Prerequisite: Writing for Children: Foundations and Writing for Children: Intermediate, or instructor's permission.

How to sign up for individual enrollment in this course