World Building Class

Course Overview:

This comprehensive course aims to deepen students' understanding of the fantasy genre while honing their critical reading and writing skills. The course is divided into three main parts (A, B, and C), each consisting of three units focusing on fantasy texts and literary concepts.

This structure encourages students to use a Read --> Play --> Build learning approach.

Learning Objectives:

• Create a fantasy world using geography, cartography, and anthropology concepts.

• Learn the essential elements of storytelling.

• Design a detailed map of a fantasy world.

• Construct profiles of civilizations.

• Write short stories featuring heroic characters from the fantasy world.By the end of the course, students will be able to:

• Discuss the fantasy genre dynamically, identifying its conventions, subgenres, and developments and evaluating its limitations.

• Apply various prewriting techniques to improve the initial stages of the writing process.

• Enhance critical reading skills by acquiring relevant literary vocabulary and refining close reading practices.

• Develop creative writing skills through interactive activities, writing challenges, and feedback sessions.

• Strengthen collaborative skills by engaging in writing workshops, practicing active listening, providing constructive criticism, and integrating feedback into their oral and written work.

• Assessment: Instructors will evaluate students' work by providing constructive feedback on each assignment. 

Booklist: Bookshop