Reminder of date changes for the short story assignment

Please remember that we have made changes to the short story dates in response to concerns that the deadlines were too tight.

The changes are as follows (new dates are in red):

Marking draft: was no later than 3.15pm Monday 23rd April 2012 - Now no later than 3.15pm Monday 30th April 2012

Electronic draft via SafeAssign: was no later than 3.15pm Thursday 26th April 2012 - Now no later than 3.15pm Thursday 3rd May 2012

Final draft: was no later than 8.20am Wednesday 2nd May 2012 - Now no later than 8.20am Wednesday 9th May 2012

Planning and drafting

Planning:

1. Dot point overview of the plot. What will happen at each stage of the story?
2. Plan your character(s). You should know everything about him/her/them.
3. Plan setting.

The more detailed your planning the greater direction you have when drafting.

Drafting:

1. Keep referring to your planning to keep you on track.
2. Ensure you are setting out paragraphs and dialogue correctly as you go - less corrections later.
3. Make sure there is a balance between showing and telling.
4. Proof-read and edit as you go. Helps maintain a logical progression of the story as well as meaning less corrections later on.
5. Make sure you are following the ideas that were identified in the rationale.

Writing your rationale

1. What is the main idea behind the story? Make this very brief. I don't need/want you to reveal the plot.
2. What is the character challenging in terms of how her society/culture/community views women/girls?
3. How will the use of non-linear structure (e.g. flashbacks) help to demonstrate the message to the audience?

Sample Rationale -

My story will revolve around a girl who is in her final year of highschool. The society in which she lives has always believed that girls should not be allowed to participate in sport. In fact, any female who is found to be participating in sport can be punished. The reason for this is because women/girls are thought to be too weak and fragile to participate in these sorts of physical activities. By incorporating the use of flashbacks into the story, the audience will be able to see how the central character has challenged and ultimately altered these beliefs during her time at highschool.

Short Story Steps for Term 2

Step 1: Finish general brainstorming
Step 2: Decide on ONE idea and stick to it
Step 3: Write rationale
Step 4: Submit rationale to Mrs Damen for approval (DUE FRIDAY WEEK 1!)
Step 5: Once rationale is approved, commence detailed planning
Step 6: Start drafting