STORY DETECTIVES

Creative Writing Summer Course for Kids

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Overview

Welcome to Story Detectives, a creative writing course where young writers become literary sleuths! Each week, students will explore the secrets behind great storytelling by reading like writers, writing their own original pieces, and sharing with a supportive group of peers. Set in the peaceful surroundings of a Buddhist temple, this course inspires creativity and reflection while building real writing skills.

Course Title: Story Detectiveas: Creative Writing Summer Course (Ages 11–16)

Instructor: Felicity Tillack

Duration: 10 Weeks

Time: Saturdays, 12:30–13:30

Dates: June 28 – August 30, 2025

Location: Konkoin Temple (near Konkai-Kōmyōji), Kyoto

28,000 yen for 10 weeks with 10% discount for the first 5 students enrolled.

Note: You do not have to attend every class. If you know in advance which classes you will miss, please let me know and we can discuss an adjusted course fee.

By the end of the course, students will:

  1. Understand the building blocks of story: character, setting, plot, theme, and structure

  2. Use mentor texts to explore different writing techniques

  3. Practice writing regularly and reflect on their creative progress

  4. Give and receive constructive, kind feedback

  5. Gain confidence in their voice as a storyteller

Each session includes:

  1. Mini-Lesson (10 mins): A short, interactive lesson using excerpts from published stories

  2. Writing Time (40 mins): Students write based on the day’s theme or prompt

  3. Sharing (10 mins): Students read aloud or discuss their ideas, practicing thoughtful feedback
  1. Students should bring a notebook or writing device each week

  2. Optional: bring a favorite book for inspiration

Week

Focus Area

Description

1

Reading Like a Writer

2

What is this story about?

Focus on theme

3

Who is this person?

Focus on character

4

You went where!?

Focus on setting

5

Everything is going wrong!

Focus on plot

6

Why is this even important?

Focus on structure

7

What did it look like?

Focus on descriptive language

8

Action!

Focus on powerful verbs

9

Wrapping up

Focus on endings

10

Reflection

All writing remains the property of the student. Stories and feedback shared in class must be respected and kept confidential. No one may copy or reproduce another student’s work without permission.