Creative Writing



Writing Elements for Creatives

ENROLL NOW

 

Ages: 12+, All Abilities are Welcomed

When: Mondays from 5:00 – 6:30 for 16 weeks | Class Starts: January 27, 2025

Cost: $500.00 plus a $48.00 registration fee. It can be paid at $125 monthly (4 classes per month). SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE for those who sign up for the semester– Drop-Ins Welcome! $40/ Class (scholarships do not apply to drop-ins)

Creative Writing Presentation: Showcase May 17 & 18, 2025

Synopsis: 

Ready to have fun with writing? Each class covers a different subject and includes hands-on writing to get the creative juices flowing.  From learning natural-sounding dialogue techniques to having fun with blogs to writing and then reciting poetry on-stage, each class will explore a different writing element.   Our in-class writing exercises, coupled with professional guidance, will empower you to develop and write your own personal projects. You’ll have the opportunity to share your writing for feedback and discussion. By the end of the course, your creative journey will culminate in a showcase of your work on stage. It’s time to tell your stories to the world! Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to elevate your writing prowess and share your narratives with impact. Join us and embark on a journey of self-expression and creative fulfillment. Let your stories shine! Drop-ins welcome! 

 

Class Dates & Topics:

Jan. 27, 2025

Transforming Ideas Into Captivating Stories

  • Good ideas don’t go anywhere if they stay hidden in your head. Learn how storytelling structure and techniques can bring your vision to life.

 

Feb 3, 2025

Developing Unforgettable Characters

  • Sometimes they’re heroes who save the day. Other times they’re the blackest of villains. Whoever they are, these compelling characters drive the story. We’ll examine what makes them stand out, then use unique hands-on exercises to develop the characters in your writing. Who knows what stories they have to tell? 

 

Feb 10, 2025

Writing Pitches and Press Releases That Get Noticed

  • Many pitches and press releases get overlooked and fall by the wayside. Don’t let that happen to you! Whether you want to be a better public relations writer or generate media attention for your own business, you don’t want to miss these writing tips and tricks.  

 

Feb 17, 2025

How To Have Fun With Blog Writing

  • Whether it’s cooking, crafts, or music, learn how to share your passions with the world in the form of blog writing. This class will teach you how to find your niche and effectively build your audience.

 

Feb. 24, 2025

Yes, You Can Write Dialogue!

  • We can all agree there’s nothing worse than cringe dialogue in a novel or screenplay.  This class kicks cringe to the curb! Learn what makes dialogue soar and then we’ll practice with fun creative writing exercises (with a little bit of improv acting thrown in the mix while we’re at it).

 

Mar. 3, 2025

Slam Poetry: Pen to Stage in  90 Minutes 

  • Learn to tap into your inner Shakespeare as we help you craft your very own poem and perform it onstage in front of your peers in just 90 minutes.

 

Mar 10, 2025

The Writers’ Golden Rule: Show, Don’t Tell – How To Do It Well

  • The goal is to create a more immersive experience for the reader. Great screenplay writing demands it as well. Mastering the golden rule isn’t always easy but after this class, you’ll have the tools for continued practice in any creative writing you choose to do.

 

Mar 17,  2025

Workshop Your Work

  • Got writer’s block? Or maybe you just want to hear what others think about your prose? Share it during this class for a professional and peer evaluation*

*To participate in Workshop Your Work you must email your writing by 3:00 pm  March 17 to (email address)

 

Topics for classes March 31, 2025 –  May 12, 2025, to be announced. 

 

Goals 

  • Learn Fundamentals: Explore the basics of different forms of creative writing through various mediums including slam poetry, character development, blog writing, and more.
  • Develop Writing Skills: Practice writing skills that you can take into your personal and professional endeavors.
  • Receive Feedback: Participate in peer reviews and workshops. Plus, receive constructive criticism from your instructors.
  • Explore Creativity: Experiment with different styles of writing to discover your unique voice as a writer.
  • Understand Industry Basics: Gain insights into how you can turn your creative passions into a potential career.

 

Benefits of Taking the Class:

  • Build Confidence: Gain confidence in your writing abilities through constructive feedback and encouragement from peers and instructors.
  • Collaborate Effectively: Learn to collaborate with fellow creatives, fostering teamwork and communication skills.
  • Receive Support: Benefit from a supportive learning environment where you can openly share ideas, brainstorm, and problem-solve as a group.
  • Expand Network: Connect with other aspiring writers and industry professionals, expanding your network and potential collaboration opportunities.
  • Grow Personally and Professionally: Develop not only as a writer but also as a communicator, problem solver, and creative thinker, preparing you for future creative endeavors.

 

Who Are Your Instructors?: Johanna Lack & Giselle Morales

Johanna Lack Bio:  One of Johanna’s first positive memories at school was a teacher’s praise for her creative writing.  In third grade she wrote about a dream where two women argued on a park bench; one dressed in black and the other wearing white. When she woke the next morning she discovered that her kitty had passed away. In the story, she wondered if the dream was the angel of death and the angel of life arguing over the fate of her cat. The teacher was so impressed she tacked Johanna’s story to the bulletin board and encouraged the other students to read it.  After this,  Johanna knew that writing would always be a part of her life. She went on to earn a BS in Radio, TV, and Film at Northwestern University, and become an award-winning television producer/writer for shows for HGTV, DIY, CBS, ABC, and Discovery Channel. She has taught scriptwriting at JDS Creative Academy since its inception 10 years ago and is the head writer for JDSCA’s Spirit of Innovation: Arts Across America. She has also worked for other companies writing video scripts, marketing materials, press releases, business reviews, website content, blogs, newsletters, and more.  

Giselle Morales Bio: Writing has been a part of Giselle’s life for as long as she can remember. Her interest in writing began in elementary school. In fourth grade, Giselle had a short story and poem published. Her affinity for entertainment also began at a young age. From never missing an award show to becoming her family’s go-to source of entertainment news, she knew very quickly that she wanted to incorporate writing and entertainment in her career in some capacity. Giselle chose to major in journalism and during her time at El Camino Community College, she served as the opinion editor and editor-in-chief for their student-run newspaper The Union. After transferring to San Diego State in 2021, she wrote concert reviews and opinion articles for The Daily Aztec and graduated with a B.A. in Journalism in 2023. She also worked as an intern at Nitecast Media for two years. There, she gained experience writing entertainment articles and had the opportunity to interview producers from “American Ninja Warrior.” She is currently the assistant writer for JDSCA’s Spirit of Innovation: Arts Across America

ENROLL NOW