In this assessment, you will polish and refine the original short story that you have been writing throughout the course.
Your finalized short story should be 1,400–1,750 words and will be assessed according to the following elements of storytelling:
Development of setting
Development of plot
Development of characters
Development of theme
Demonstration of conflict
Demonstration of style and word choice
Demonstration of point of view
Follow the plan to finalize your original short story draft:
1. Review your latest draft:
Revisit the latest version of your work. Review the feedback you received from your faculty member about the draft you submitted in Week 4.
Review the discussion from last week about specific areas of your work and consider the feedback you received throughout the course from your classmates and faculty member.
Make notes on specific areas you plan to revise based on all feedback you’ve received.
2. Enhance craft-based decisions:
Address each aspect of your work according to your goals. This may include reworking sentences, paragraphs, or entire sections to improve the exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution.
Pay close attention to craft-based decisions such as character development, plot, setting, theme, style and word choice, point of view, and conflict. Ensure these decisions contribute effectively to your short story.
Consider how you might deepen the themes in your piece to create a more meaningful story.
3. Maintain a strong character:
Preserve the unique voice and style of your characters. While revisions are essential, it is important to retain the authenticity and individuality of your characters’ voices.
4. Proofread and edit:
Proofread your revised work for grammar, spelling, punctuation, and typographical errors.
Edit for clarity, conciseness, and coherence. Ensure your short story flows smoothly and logically.
5. Title and formatting:
Choose or revise the title of your short story. A well-crafted title can provide insight into the theme of your work.
Format your work according to any specific guidelines provided by your faculty member, including font and margins.
Submit your assessment.
