Module #1 Introduction to Writing Biographies and Historical Narratives Overview of the course, importance of biographies and historical narratives, and setting writing goals.
Module #2 Understanding the Genre Defining biography and historical narrative, their characteristics, and differences.
Module #3 Choosing a Subject Selecting a subject for your biography or historical narrative, research considerations, and criteria for selection.
Module #4 Research Methods Introduction to research methods, primary and secondary sources, and evaluating sources.
Module #5 Creating a Research Plan Developing a research plan, identifying key questions, and setting research goals.
Module #6 Organizing Your Research Note-taking, indexing, and organizing research materials, including digital tools.
Module #7 Crafting a Compelling Narrative Foundational principles of narrative writing, including character development and plot.
Module #8 Writing Biographical Profiles Writing vivid and engaging biographical profiles, including character sketches and descriptive passages.
Module #9 Scene Writing Writing effective scenes, using sensory details and dialogue to bring the past to life.
Module #10 Writing Historical Context Integrating historical context into your narrative, including setting, politics, and culture.
Module #11 Dealing with Fact and Fiction Navigating the line between fact and fiction, using creative liberties responsibly, and avoiding historical inaccuracies.
Module #12 Using Primary Sources Interpreting and incorporating primary sources, including diaries, letters, and photographs.
Module #13 Conducting Interviews Preparing for and conducting interviews, note-taking, and using interview material effectively.
Module #14 Structuring Your Narrative Organizing your narrative, including chapter structure, pacing, and transitions.
Module #15 Writing with Emotional Resonance Creating emotional resonance, using emotional connections, and conveying empathy.
Module #16 Revising and Editing The importance of revision and editing, strategies for revising, and self-editing techniques.
Module #17 Fact-Checking and Verification Verifying facts, checking accuracy, and avoiding errors.
Module #18 Writing for Different Audiences Adapting your writing for different audiences, including academic, general, and young adult readers.
Module #19 Using Storytelling Techniques Applying storytelling techniques, including foreshadowing, suspense, and symbolism.
Module #20 Incorporating Themes and Symbolism Identifying and incorporating themes, symbolism, and motifs into your narrative.
Module #21 Writing about Trauma and Controversy Handling sensitive topics, including trauma, controversy, and cultural sensitivity.
Module #22 Using Maps, Images, and Documents Incorporating visual elements, including maps, images, and documents, to enhance your narrative.
Module #23 Crafting a Strong Beginning Writing an engaging opening, including hooks, intros, and establishing the narrative tone.
Module #24 Conclusion and Reflection Writing a satisfying conclusion, reflecting on the writing process, and looking forward to publication.
Module #25 Course Wrap-Up & Conclusion Planning next steps in Writing Biographies and Historical Narratives career
