Class

Writing Immersion (for Ages 12 to 14)

This full-day summer writing experience is designed especially for young writers to explore storytelling through animals, imagination, and play. In the morning, students will read and write stories about beloved pets—both real and imaginary—building confidence with basic story structure and sharing their ideas. After a midday lunch and enrichment break to recharge and move, the afternoon invites writers to stretch their imaginations by drawing maps and creating fantasy towns where their stories can unfold. Together, the day balances reading, writing, art, and creativity in a supportive, joyful environment for early writers.

SESSION 1: Creative Spark Poetry! (for Ages 12 to 14) with Rachel Guvenc

Are you curious about expressing yourself through poetry? Poetry exploration can help your writing pop. In this class, you will write poetry about your memories, dreams, observations, and opinions. You will encounter poetry, Spoken Word, music, visual art, and more to inspire your creative flow. We will read poetry by Ada Limón, Ross Gay, Victoria Chang and others. This class will offer you a variety of fun opportunities to get your creative juices flowing!

This class will cover:
Exploration of haiku, acrostic, erasure and other poetic forms
Word play games to generate creative language
Use of collage, clay and visual art to spark creativity
Music and spoken word to center our work in rhythmic expression

LUNCH AND ENRICHMENT:
We'll break for lunch with more activities that will inspire us to express ourselves while having fun! We may explore Gold Medal Park to seek creativity outside the classroom! Please bring a packed lunch.

SESSION 2: Science Fiction and Fantasy Basics (for Ages 12 to 14) with Craig Noles

Step into the worlds of your imagination! In this week-long class, we’ll explore the building blocks of science fiction and fantasy storytelling.

Each day, we’ll focus on a key element of writing: creating unforgettable characters, crafting exciting plots and scenes, designing imaginative worlds, exploring themes, and choosing the perfect point of view. By the end of the week, you’ll have the tools to bring your own incredible stories to life!

Aspiring writers, grab your notebooks and pens, and let’s write at the Loft!