What This Document Is
This is the official course outline for ENL 301: Writing Fiction – The Short Story, offered at the University of Detroit Mercy. It serves as a comprehensive guide to the course’s expectations, requirements, and overall structure. It details the approach to developing fictional narratives, specifically focusing on the short story form, and outlines how students will cultivate essential writing skills.
Why This Document Matters
This outline is crucial for any student enrolled in, or considering enrolling in, ENL 301. It provides a clear understanding of the course’s philosophy, the workload involved, and the criteria for successful completion. Reviewing this outline *before* the course begins will allow you to prepare effectively and understand the commitment required for excelling in the art of fiction writing. It’s also a valuable reference throughout the semester to ensure you stay on track with assignments and expectations.
Topics Covered
* The relationship between personal vision and public reception in fiction.
* The technical demands and constraints of genre fiction.
* Core elements of short story construction.
* The importance of revision and self-discipline in the writing process.
* Professional standards for written work.
* The role of community and collaboration in developing writing skills.
What This Document Provides
* A detailed overview of course assignments and their weighting towards the final grade.
* Guidelines for manuscript formatting and submission.
* Expectations regarding class attendance and participation.
* A description of the key skills students will develop throughout the course.
* Information regarding required course texts and resources.
* A clear statement of the instructor’s approach to teaching and evaluating student work.