Writing   

Writing believable, relatable dialogue is an art-form, but fortunately there are some tried-and-tested methods and techniques you can use right now to improve the dialogue in your novel or script. In this fast paced session, you’ll learn how to turn ordinary words into compelling dialogue, use clean dialogue tags, differentiate character voices, use dialogue instead of narrative/voiceover, avoid dialogue “dumps,” and be real, but not boring. The instructor LeeAnne Krusemark is a former journalist, current author and editor, and a nationwide Professor of Publishing at higher learning institutions, including Harvard Adult Education. Informative handouts for future use are included in class fee. The webinar login information will be emailed the day before class.

 

Age range: 16+

ChatGPT (AI) is here to stay and is the future for writers and content creators. Don’t be left behind! No prior AI experience required. Do you want to learn how to incorporate the power of cutting-edge technology to gain ideas and inspiration, write web content, articles, and even novels or scripts? In this beginner-friendly course, you’ll learn how to:

• register for a FREE ChatGPT account
• input effective writing prompts to avoid nonsense responses
• build creative content, from stories to marketing copy
• determine its capabilities and limitations
• understand ethical/legal considerations using ChatGPT

There’s no doubt ChatGPT and similar AI systems will force the job market to evolve. It’s crucial for everyone to adapt, learn new skills, and be open to working in collaboration with AI, so start building your expertise in the world of ChatGPT now! The instructor LeeAnne Krusemark is a former journalist, current author and editor, and a nationwide Professor of Publishing at higher learning institutions, including Harvard Adult Education. Informative handouts for future use are included in class fee. The instructor will send a zoom link before class.

Age range: 16+

If your goal is to become a published freelance writer by selling a magazine article, short story, poem, or even a novel to a traditional publisher, this comprehensive workshop will guide you to, then past the editor's desk. You will discover how to:

• become a “published” writer overnight
• submit manuscripts the correct way
• find the right publisher for your work
• write irresistible query letters
• determine when and how to get an agent
• 100 ways to make money as a freelance writer

If you really want to succeed, this step-by-step workshop is a must! Informative handouts for future use are included in class fee. The instructor LeeAnne Krusemark is a former journalist, current author and editor, and a nationwide Professor of Publishing at higher learning institutions, including Harvard Adult Education. 

Age range: 16+

You don’t need a degree in creative writing to be an exceptional writer and get paid for it! Anyone with a passion for writing can learn and develop their fiction and non-fiction writing skills. Whether you’re writing from your own life experience, creating new worlds, or informing readers about important information, this class will teach you about the different forms of creative writing, the top 10 creative writing tips for beginners, as well as how to brainstorm for new creative writing ideas, bring your words to life with engaging descriptions, develop your own writing style, and how to get paid for your creative writing. The instructor LeeAnne Krusemark is a former journalist, current author and editor, and a nationwide Professor of Publishing at higher learning institutions, including Harvard Adult Education. Informative handouts for future use are included in class fee. The webinar login information will be emailed the day before class.

 

Age range: 16+

Whether you are asking for organizational contributions, selling school fundraising items, putting on an event, or other requests, is asking for and bringing in funds to support your organization or program a challenge? You are not alone. You don’t have to apologize when asking for support and contributions for your organization. In this course you will learn techniques to bring in funds and resources for your project or organization. This workshop is valuable for staff, Boards, volunteers, and anyone who is involved with raising funds for your nonprofit organization.

PowerPoint provided following each class at no additional fee. 

Age range: 18+

 

Self-publishing is all the rage, but is it the best option for YOU? (participants must also attend “Beginner’s Guide to Getting Published”) And, can you do both? You will discover the pros and cons of all the self-publishing options, including print-on-demand and e-book publishing, as well as Amazon options, and see how they compare to traditional publishing. Informative handouts, including a rated description of 50 self-publishing companies for future use are included in class fee.

Prerequisite: participants must also attend “Beginner’s Guide to Getting Published," which is offered right before this class. 

Age range: 16+

 

You don’t need to be famous to have a legacy to leave behind. Create an inspirational autobiography for family, friends, and others. Learn how to recall vivid memories, analyze events and people that shaped who you are, and bring your story to life. Your handout, included in the class fee, will have an outline to help you organize and write your memoir step-by-step. Printing/publishing options will also be discussed. The instructor LeeAnne Krusemark is a former journalist, current author and editor, and a nationwide Professor of Publishing at higher learning institutions, including Harvard Adult Education. This course is LIVE REMOTE during the date and time listed. The webinar login information will be emailed the day before class.  

Age range: 16+

 

Want to write powerful sentences? With the guidance of a college professor, this course covers basic sentence structure as well as introduces you to a variety of ways to craft your sentences; this course covers the components of a sentence, such as subjects and verbs, punctuation, subordination, coordination, common errors, and tips for revision. It is a mix of both lecture and workshop, where students share their writing with the instructor and with each other to receive feedback and guidance. Whether you are transitioning from high school to college, a returning student, an adult learner, or an English language learner, you will gain confidence as a writer and gain skills that will help you feel ready to tackle your first college English course.

Age range: Those 15 and over are welcome!

Please bring a pen or pencil to class. Course workbook will be provided. 

This intensive course provides a schedule of crafting a novel from start to finish, which you can finish in as little as 90 days! This class will also help you stay motivated throughout the journey. You will learn how to:

• select your novel genre and develop a compelling premise
• create multidimensional characters and immersive settings
• craft a detailed plot outline
• manage your time to keep your writing flow consistent
• combat common roadblocks including writer’s block
• master the art of self-editing: refining your plot, and fixing pacing, dialogue, and characterization problems.
• receive constructive criticism from beta readers
• explore publishing options

By the end of this class, you will know how to complete your novel and have the knowledge and confidence to move forward with the publishing process. The instructor LeeAnne Krusemark is a former journalist, current author and editor, and a nationwide Professor of Publishing at higher learning institutions, including Harvard Adult Education. Informative handouts for future use are included in class fee. The webinar login information will be emailed the day before class.

Age range: 16+

Writing short stories (1,000–30,000 words) helps you discover your writing voice and how to convey your ideas. You’ll learn how to bring your story to life with an engaging plot, as well as character development, action, and dialogue. You’ll also learn the technical parts of crafting a short story, including structure, important character moments, and progression in the story. You’ll also know what to do with your short story once completed, including editing, proofing, and publishing options. The instructor LeeAnne Krusemark is a former journalist, current author and editor, and a nationwide Professor of Publishing at higher learning institutions, including Harvard Adult Education. Informative handouts for future use are included in class fee. The webinar login information will be emailed the day before class.

 

Age range: 16+