Subject objectives/outcomes
At the completion of this subject, students are expected to be able to:
a. produce a biographical piece which conforms to what is expected of contemporary biographical narratives with the appropriate use and acknowledgement of a wide number of sources
b. demonstrate depth of research in writing biographical and travel narratives
c. bring focused critical skills to bear on their own and other's non-fiction narratives
d. produce a piece of travel writing with a strong narrative combined with personal reflections and observations.
Objective(s): a, b
Weighting: 40%
Task: A biographical sketch of 2,000 words maximum. For this assignment students should choose a person (living or dead) who has a public profile and, using documentary sources (e.g. newspaper archives) along with interviews (if their subject is living) with the person, and with people who know their subject, construct a compelling and interesting portrait. This task is designed to develop research and writing skills and consider creative approaches in the area of biography.
Assessment criteria: Demonstrated ability to:
* Research accurately from a variety of sources, including personal interviews
* Compose a revealing and in-depth character portrait using non-fictional techniques
* Develop an angle on the chosen subject, along with a convincing narrative
Assessment item 2: Non-Fiction Seminar
Objective(s): c
Weighting: 20%
Task: Present to the class an analysis of a chosen non-fiction text, examining its strengths and weaknesses from a writer's perspective. The emphasis will be on the techniques available to the non-fiction writer and to examine contemporary and past discourses in the mode, with a view to an appraisal of the writing and research strategies and any related issues and questions this raises for the creative non fiction writer.Please note: This seminar is a discussion about non-fiction which is intended to generate discussion and ideas.
Assessment criteria: Demonstrated ability to:
* analyse and understand the construction of non-fiction narratives
Assessment item 3: Travel Writing
Objective(s): a, d
Weighting: 40%
Task: Go outside your comfort zone: Take a journey outside Sydney by car, bus or train. Along the way interview workers, other passengers and research the history of the town or region you are visiting. Develop an original narrative weaving together this research combined with your own personal observations and reflections. This task is designed to develop research and writing skills and consider creative approaches in the area of travel writing.
Assessment criteria: Demonstrated ability to:
* combine research, personal observations and facts into a compelling travel narrative
* maintain factual accuracy, use correct and clear English expression
* employ skilful non-fiction techniques.
Minimum requirements
Students are expected to read the subject outline to ensure they are familiar with the subject requirements. Since class discussion and participation in activities form an integral part of this subject, you are expected to attend, arrive punctually and actively participate in classes. If you experience difficulties meeting this requirement, please contact your lecturer. Students who have a reason for extended absence (e.g., illness) may be required to complete additional work to ensure they achieve the subject objectives.
Barbara Lounsberry - The Art of Fact: Contemporary Artists of Nonfiction, Greenwood Press, 1990
Norman Sims Literary Journalism in the Twentieth Century, OUP, 1990
