Class

Creative Nonfiction Essentials for Grades 10-12

This class is not about those dreaded five-paragraph school essays! Creative nonfiction pieces can read like fiction—but everything is true. In this class, we’ll uncover the art of mixing facts with creative elements, including imagery, vivid description, suspense, and more. We’ll also dig deep into the importance of the writer’s voice and how to develop it.

In our sessions, we’ll discuss short examples, dive into exercises, and try various types of creative nonfiction, including personal essay, opinion pieces, and “borrowed forms” essays (also known as hermit crab essays). Students will be invited to share their in-class exercises for first-blush instructor feedback.

This is an ideal class for writers interested in journalism, opinion/op-ed, personal essay or memoir. It’s also a great way for writers to build their skills in creative writing (in general) and apply them to fiction, poetry, school work, or even college essays.

What is Loft Online After School?
These groups connect young writers and readers across the U.S. and beyond. They offer a supportive community focused on writing goals or book discussions, making new friends, and thinking deeply.

Instructions for Accessing This Online Class

In order to access live class meetings, you must have the Zoom application downloaded to your computer. You will also need a WiFi/Internet connection throughout the duration of your scheduled meeting and a computer with audio and video capability. The information to join your Zoom classroom will be provided in your confirmation email upon registration. Please check spam folders if you do not see this email upon registration. For more information on how to use Zoom, please see our training manual here.

Some classes use a supplemental Google Classroom page. Should your teaching artist use Google Classroom, you will be invited to join the classroom via email at least 24 hours in advance of your class (check spam folders if you are not seeing this invitation). Please note that Google Classroom requires a Gmail address to access the Classroom. If you do not have a Gmail account, the email invitation will be sent to the email address we have on file and will prompt you to create a free account or enter an existing account to join the classroom. If we are unable to send an email invitation to your non-gmail account, you will be contacted by a staff member to provide a Gmail address. If you do not have a Gmail account, you can create a free account here. Should you have concerns about this, please contact a Loft staff member at [email protected] or 612-379-8999. For more information on how to use Google Classroom, please see our training manual here.