2012-2013 Academic Catalog

Apr 27, 2024

2012-2013 Academic Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

TA 209 - Writing Out Loud

Type of Course: Workshop

This is a course in which students will learn to listen and consider how the application of spoken word and performance strategies can strengthen their written work. Students will write nonfiction prose essays and will be taken through a series of exercises involving a variety of mediums to help facilitate the writer’s ear. By semester’s end, students will write at least two essays, one of which will be performed in a public setting. A play is unique in that it contains the written word spoken and experienced collectively. Conversely, we read essays privately, in our own space and time. But what if one is to write with the idea that a work will eventually be performed out loud? How is the writing style and process affected? What methods are used by those who write and deliver prose? What is the difference between the essay that is meant to be read and the essay meant to be spoken? Is there a difference or should there be a difference? Writing Out Loud is not an acting class. It is not a course in public speaking or speech writing. Nor is it a course intended to develop the performance artist. Rather, we feel that techniques employed within these mediums will serve to help writers develop their writing skill. Writing Out Loud is a workshop course designed to help writers listen. The class is by permission only and it is not open to first-year students. Students must submit a portfolio of writing for review.