A colleague and I are prepping for one of my favourite library programs – a creative writing program for kids! Open to kids in grades 3-7, this weekly program will introduce different elements of fiction writing – character creation, plot development, story structure, pacing and more. As facilitators we provide prompts and activities to get kids’ creative juices flowing, share mentor texts to provide inspiration, and give kids plenty of time to work on their own projects.
This year, of course, things are still a bit different, and the program will be offered virtually via Zoom. While virtual programs have their drawbacks, I’m still beyond thrilled that we’re going to be able to continue offering programs, and can do so in a way that is safe for staff and kiddos. And there are benefits to Zoom programs, too! Previously kids could often only attend programs at branches in their neighbourhoods, just due to timing and transportation – now kids all across the city can attend programs, wherever they live! The differences between neighbourhoods can be quite dramatic, and now kids can interact with peers from different backgrounds and different walks of life. And it means that I can deliver a program with a colleague who works at a branch on the other side of town! So, it definitely isn’t all bad.
I have a few tried and tested writing prompts and games up my sleeve that I’ve used at different programs, and one of my favourites is a picture-based character creation game. It couldn’t be simpler. You take a random photo, give kids a timer, and ask them to create a character based on that photo. I find fashion magazines to be a great place to find photos that are sure to start a conversation!
First, get them to describe the character physically. Think of colour and shape and texture. Their height and weight and build. The colour of their hair and eyes. The texture of their skin and shape of their nose and curve of their eyebrows. Anything that could be used in a scene to help the reader picture this character.
Then, move on to the character’s emotional or mental state. Are they brave, or reluctant? Extroverted or introverted? Powerful or weak? What aspects of the image support that? Saying a character is outgoing isn’t enough – what aspects of their dress, their facial expression, their posture reinforce that?
What about a name? Does the character have a title? An honorific? Do they have a nickname that only their closest friends use, or one that inspires fear in the hearts of any who hear it?
What about friends, companions or teammates? Is the character a “lone wolf” type, or do they have a pack of supporters, allies or servants?
Honestly, this activity can go into as much breadth and depth as you like, or at least as much as you have time for. If your students are younger or are perhaps English Language Learners, a worksheet can be a great support in an activity like this. Provide spaces for students to write down their answers (Name: Age: Occupation: Appearance: Friends: Family: etc.)
If students feel comfortable, encourage them to share their characters with the group! In situations like this, I always recommend leading by example. Create your own wild character story, and start of the sharing! And of course, take it from this shy kid, don’t ever make kids share their writing if they don’t feel comfortable. Writing clubs should be safe and welcoming spaces, and kids should be encouraged, not forced, to share. When kids feel safe, supported, welcome and ready, then they’ll be more likely to want to share.
And that’s the activity! It couldn’t be simpler, or more fun. I can’t wait to share it with my future students, and see what wonderful characters they come up with!