Jennifer Lauck's Blog, page 7

Wednesday PM Bones of Story Telling Class

"I'm so happy I signed up for this class. You have blown me away with your enthusiasm and passion. Wow, can't wait to dig in and do the work." ~ Michael T. 
 
Welcome to the page for participants in the Fall, Wednesday PM Bones of Storytelling Class.  We begin Sept. 17th at 5:30-7:30 and are in the midst of taking registration.  Click Here.  If you are signed up, get a jump on this terrific class by taking a look at the required books listed at the bottom of this page. 

My goal in these ten weeks is to teach concept, theme, plot, structure, character and setting AND, for you to walk away with a plan for writing a solid first & second draft.  Everyone who takes this class loves it.
  
Sept. 17 ~ Class 1:   Concept, What If Questions & Theme Discussion 

Class 2:  Plot Discussion

Class 3:  Structure Discussion

Class 4:  Character Discussion

Class 5:  Setting Discussion

Class 6-10:  Workshop full projects

Reference texts: Story by Robert McKee (required)
Seven Basic Plots by Christopher Booker (required)
Story Engineering by Larry Brooks (required)

Tell it Slant by Brenda Miller
Screenwriters Problem Solver by Syd Fields
On Writing Well by William Zinsser
The Art of Dramatic Writing by Lajos Egri
PROGRAM:  Scrivener (free download for 30 days). 
Punctuation Basics (link--print please) 

Wednesday AM Bones of Storytelling Class

You gave us so much great information during these short 5 weeks. Your input in class was a huge help and it gave me a lot of solid insight into how to build a good story. I especially liked the class you taught on structure, your W diagram showed me very clearly how poorly laid out my plot was. Yikes! I have a lot of work to do and am busy re-writing my manuscript. ~ Barbara


Welcome to the page for participants in the Fall, Wednesday AM Bones of Storytelling Class.  We begin Sept. 17th at 11 a.m., and are in the midst of taking registration.  Click Here.  If you are signed up, get a jump on this terrific class by taking a look at the required books listed at the bottom of this page. 

My goal in these ten weeks is to teach concept, theme, plot, structure, character and setting AND, for you to walk away with a plan for writing a solid first & second draft.  Everyone who takes this class loves it.
  

Sept. 17 ~ Class 1:   Concept, What If Questions & Theme Discussion  

Class 2:  Plot Discussion

Class 3:  Structure Discussion

Class 4:  Character Discussion

Class 5:  Setting Discussion

Class 6-10:  Workshop full projects 

Reference texts: 
Story by Robert McKee (required)
Seven Basic Plots by Christopher Booker (required)
Story Engineering by Larry Brooks (required)

Tell it Slant by Brenda Miller
Screenwriters Problem Solver by Syd Fields
On Writing Well by William Zinsser
The Art of Dramatic Writing by Lajos Egri
PROGRAM:  Scrivener (free download for 30 days). 
Punctuation Basics (link--print please) 

Thursday Advanced PM Craft Class

"Thank you so much - you are a wonderful instructor, you should know this as many times as you've heard it. As a very old teacher I love your touch with people." ~ Helen

This page is for all the students in the PM Craft Class at The Attic.

NOTE:  This is an approval based class, meaning you need to check with me before signing up.  At this time, the class is full but to be wait listed, please send 1) References from previous workshops 2) A representative sample of your writing 3) Your background as a writer to jennifer@jenniferlauck.com.  I also like writers in this class to have taken The Bones of Storytelling.  You can do this online or attend prior to attempting to take this class. 

Class Begins Sept. 18th at 5:30 p.m. :  Workshop and Essay Schedule to come Sept. 5. 
 
Reference texts: 
Story by Robert McKee (REQUIRED) 
Tell it Slant by Brenda Miller
Story Engineering by Larry Brooks
Seven Basic Plots by Christopher Booker
Screenwriters Problem Solver by Syd Fields
On Writing Well by William Zinsser
The Elements of Style by Strunk/White
The Emotion Thesaurus by Angela Ackerman
Philip Lopate on Writing Personal Essays

Thursday AM Craft Class

"Thank you so much - you are a wonderful instructor, you should know this as many times as you've heard it. As a very old teacher I love your touch with people." ~ Helen

This page is for all the students in the AM Craft Class at The Attic. We are in the midst of taking registration and are nearly full!  We begin on Sept. 17th at 10:30 a.m. Get your spot OR get on the wait list.  If you are already signed up, get a jump by checking out the schedule (under constructions) and the recommended reading.  Virtual Option, click here.

Class Detail:  Writers pre-create and share a two page essay with a beginning/middle and end to hone your craft skills weekly.  3 to 4 writers will also workshop 5 pages each week and that schedule will be posted by Sept. 10.  Last, each class has a craft teaching including an essay you will pre-read to discuss. 

My goal, in this class, is to teach you all I know about crafting fine scenes via the incorporation of dialogue, sensory details, character development and forward momentum of action.  It is also my intention to give you basic information about plot, structure and character, from a readers view point, so you can better shape your ideas to read the reader.


Sept. 18 - Class 1
Prompt: 
Reading Submission: 
Readers: 

Class 2
Prompt: 
Reading Submission: 
Readers:

Class 3 
Prompt:
Reading Submission:
Readers:

Class 4
Prompt:
Reading Submission: 
Readers:

Class 5
Prompt:
Reading Submission: 
Readers:

Class 6
Prompt:
Reading Submission: 
Readers:

Class 7
Prompt:
Reading Submission: 
Readers:

Class 8
Prompt:
Reading Submission: 
Readers:

Required Text:
Tell it Slant by Brenda Miller    


Reference texts:  Click on Links or Order Books
Philip Lopate on Writing Personal Essays
Keep it Short by Danny Heitman
Seven Basic Plots by Christopher Booker
Story Engineering by Larry Brooks
Screenwriters Problem Solver by Syd Fields
Story by Robert McKee


SUGGESTED PROGRAM:  Scrivener (free download for 30 days). 

Virtual Advanced Writing Class

Mp3 download with handouts
 
This is advanced class is as good as taking a teaching with me in person.  In seven hours, this series covers the necessary tools you need to be a fine storyteller. 1) Structure. 2) Scene. 3) Characterization. Over three separate sessions, all downloaded to your listening device, you will learn through exercises and by listening to the evolution of the students in the program. Students love this class.  It's on your schedule but it also feels like you are in a live class. 

"I want to thank you for an amazing class. I took copious notes and could barely settle my brain down to fall asleep. I woke up 5:30 this morning with memories of my early childhood. I jumped out of bed (I usually hit snooze at least three times) and started to write. You have inspired me. Yet again. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you."
   —Beth
 
"I went outside after class with you, sat in the sunshine and thought about how thankful I am for you and your teaching. I always feel like I can move mountains after your class. I am starting to understand a little more each time. You are so inspiring."
   —Anglea

COST: $150.00

Payment Options VIRTUAL CLASS $150.00 USD

Virtual Structure Class

Bones of Story Telling Class via online formatting

Learn concept, theme, plot, structure and character. Walk away with a plan for writing your next draft.

Learn and practice: 
 The seven basic plots  Three/four and five part structure systems  Story concept and theme  Seven character types


Learn how to map your story on the W structure chart and the expanded pillar chart. Learn how to sharpen your story to impact agent, editor, publisher and reader.
Stop wasting precious time writing in circles. Learn how to get out of that 50-150 pg. slump. I'll show you how creativity and advance planning can work together in your process. Save yourself years of confusion, wasted time, frustration and rejection. Leave this class with clarity, knowledge and a plan to finish (and publish) your novel, memoir and/or short story/creative non-fiction collection.

Class 1: Concept & Theme discussion
Class 2: Plot discussion—Seven Basic plots and how your book fits in this form. And why!
Class 3: Character studies within Seven Basic Plot base and the model of Joseph Campbell archetypes
Class 4: Structure—W Charting
Class 5: Charting your What if ?'s on the W and the value of Setting
You will leave these 5 weeks with a very important understanding of what your WHOLE project is about and have a full map to follow as you get through the next draft.

COST: $195.00 (Paypal or check)

Bones of Storytelling - Virtual Option

Bones of Story Telling Class via online formatting

Learn concept, theme, plot, structure and character. Walk away with a plan for writing your next draft.

Learn and practice:
The seven basic plots
Three/four and five part structure systems
Story concept and theme
Seven character types
Learn how to map your story on the W structure chart and the expanded pillar chart. Learn how to sharpen your story to impact agent, editor, publisher and reader.
Stop wasting precious time writing in circles. Learn how to get out of that 50-150 pg. slump. I'll show you how creativity and advance planning can work together in your process. Save yourself years of confusion, wasted time, frustration and rejection. Leave this class with clarity, knowledge and a plan to finish (and publish) your novel, memoir and/or short story/creative non-fiction collection.

Class 1: Concept & Theme discussion
Class 2: Plot discussion—Seven Basic plots and how your book fits in this form. And why!
Class 3: Character studies within Seven Basic Plot base and the model of Joseph Campbell archetypes
Class 4: Structure—W Charting
Class 5: Charting your
What if ?'s on the W and the value of Setting

You will leave these 5 weeks with a very important understanding of what your WHOLE project is about and have a full map to follow as you get through the next draft.

COST: $195.00

OR: Send me an email and I'll get you an address to send a check.

Sunday PM Craft Class

"Thank you so much - you are a wonderful instructor, you should know this as many times as you've to heard it. As a very old teacher I love your touch with people." ~ Helen This page is for all the students in the PM Craft Class at The Attic. We are in the midst of taking registration and students for the April class.  If you are signed up, get a jump by checking out the current schedule and the recommended reading. 

Class Detail:  Writers will read each class - 2 pgs - these are smaller works assigned in class and refined prior to class that contain a beginning, middle, end.  You'll be critiqued on the critique you give in these smaller break out reads.  And we'll workshop - as a group - two longer submissions (schedule announced once registration complete).  You'll have your longer works workshopped by large group twice.  These are intense, fine tune, line edit style workshops from Jennifer as well. 

My goal, in this class, is to teach you all I know about crafting fine scenes via the incorporation of dialogue, sensory details, character development and forward momentum of action.  It is also my intention to give you basic information about plot, structure and character, from a readers view point, so you can better shape your ideas to read the reader. 

PM WORKSHOP DEPTH READERS: John Cooney, Megan 
 (8-10 pg. double spaced, 12 pt. font, normal 1 inch margins)  

Homework:  Read Following chapters.  Fiction: Premise from The Art of Dramatic Writing or Non-Fiction:  Simplicity from On Writing Well. 
Read 1st 25% of Financial Lives of Poets.   
2 pg. Essay:  Prompt-Heart Break (inspired by Cherish this Ecstasy)

Class 2 ~ Jan. 27: Prompt:  Heart Break (2 pg. essay/short story with beginning, middle, end)
  Discuss: 1st 25% of Jess Walters The Financial Lives of the Poets. 
  Lesson:  Premise/Simplicity
  Readers: Erin, Cloie, Vicky

Class 3 ~ Feb. 10: Prompt:  Stealing  (2 pg. essay/short story with beginning, middle, end)
  Model essay:  The Thief by Jess Walter
  Lesson:  Premise/Simplicity
  Readers: David, Lisa, Keri

Class 4 ~ Feb. 24: Prompt:  Birth (2 pg. essay/short story with beginning, middle, end)
  Model essay:  Links by Jennifer Lauck
  Readers: Lily, Paula, Carrie

Class 5 ~ Mar. 10: Prompt:  The Perfectionist (2 pg. essay/short story with beginning, middle, end)
  Model essay:  Omelas by Ursula LeGuin
  Readers:  Megan, John, Heide

Class 6 ~ Mar. 24: Prompt:  The Crush (2 pg. essay/short story with beginning, middle, end)
  Model essay:  101 Ways to Cook a Hamburger by Bernard Cooper
  Readers:  Erin, Cloie, Vicky

Class 7 ~ Apr. 7: Prompt:  In the Woods (2 pg. essay/short story with beginning, middle, end)
  Model essay:  The Greatest Nature Essay Ever by Brian Doyle
  Readers: David, Lisa, Keri, Sara

Class 8 ~ Apr. 21: Prompt:  Vengance (2 pg. essay/short story with beginning, middle, end)
  Model essay:  Abbey Pinola by Tom Rachman (The Perfectionists) 
  Readers: Lily, Paula, Carrie



Reference texts:
Tell it Slant by Brenda Miller (required)
Story Engineering by Larry Brooks(required)

Seven Basic Plots by Christopher Booker
Screenwriters Problem Solver by Syd Fields
On Writing Well by William Zinsser
The Elements of Style by Strunk/White
The Emotion Thesaurus by Angela Ackerman

Spring Writer Retreat

Come to Eastern Oregon.  Escape the dreary wet, stay in a lovely hotel and write, drink wine, chat, write and rest.  A fantastic way to refresh your writing life.






Draft Schedule (actual schedule may vary):

Friday
7pm: Wine and cheese reception and talk: We'll get together, introduce ourselves, review the plan for the weekend, and talk a little about creativity and inspiration. This is mostly social with a half-hour to 45-minute organization session too.

Saturday
7-9am: Early morning writing. Early morning writing is an opportunity to clear your mind, imagine projects, sketch, and write.
9am: Breakfast delivered to the hotel.
9:30-10:45am: Introductory prompts and discussion.
10:45 Break
11am: Workshop.
12:30: Lunch: Delivered to the hotel.
1:30-3 Afternoon writing.
3:15-5:15: Workshop.
5:15-6pm: Break
6pm Dinner: Delivered to the hotel.
7:30pm: Reading Hour and Celebration.

Sunday
7-9am:  Early morning writing.
9am: Breakfast delivered to the hotel.
9:30-11am Workshop.
11am Late morning writing.
12pm: Final meeting. Q & A and Discovery.
1pm Checkout

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP

Tuesday Bones of Storytelling Class

"I'm so happy I signed up for this class. You have blown me away with your enthusiasm and passion. 
Wow, can't wait to dig in and do the work." ~ Michael T. 

Welcome to the page for participants in the Tuesday AM, Bones of Storytelling Class.

We are in the midst of taking registration and students for the April class.  If you are signed up, get a jump on this terrific class by taking a look at the books required (one two are required).  They are listed at the bottom of this page.  You can also have a sneak peak by looking at the current class schedule.  

My goal, in this class, is to teach concept, theme, plot, structure and character and for each writer to walk away with a plan for writing their draft.   Everyone who takes this class, loves it.
  

Class 1 ~ Jan. 14 
Intro, Set Concept - What If?'s &Theme discussion
Homework Class 1: 
1)  Finish What If questions.  Remember, there is no right or wrong.  Don't analyze while you create.  Just create. 
2)  Balance out your theme - pg. 125.  
3)  What do you love to read?  

Class 2 ~ Jan. 21
Plot
Homework Class 2: 
1)  Fine Tune What If Questions.   
2)  Figure out what your plot is. 
3)  Ask the question...what is my ending.  When you see the image of your ending and write it as an idea or a scene.   

Class 3 ~ Jan. 28
Character within Plot base

Class 4 ~ Feb. 4
Structure - W Charting

Class 5 ~ Feb. 11
Setting - W Charting

Class 6 ~ Feb. 18
PRESENT

Class 7 ~ Feb. 25
PRESENT

Class 8 ~ Mar. 4
PRESENT

Class 9 ~ Mar. 11
PRESENT

Class 10 ~ Mar. 18
PRESENT

Class 10 ~ ALT OPTION ~ Mar. 25

Reference texts:
Seven Basic Plots by Christopher Booker (required)
Story Engineering by Larry Brooks (required)

Tell it Slant by Brenda Miller
Screenwriters Problem Solver by Syd Fields
Financial Lives of the Poets by Jess Walter. 
On Writing Well by William Zinsser
The Art of Dramatic Writing by Lajos Egri
PROGRAM:  Scrivener (free download for 30 days). 
Punctuation Basics (link--print please)