Horror Writing/Speech Giving

3rd period, please use your storyboard and journal notes to create a "horror" short story.

Some tips to help you:
1. All good stories (horror or otherwise--it doesn't matter which genre) are based on interesting, well-drawn characters doing something "important" (at least in their eyes). Make sure you have an idea as to who your character IS--before you write. Give your character a name, an occupation, a goal or motivation, etc. Review the articles I gave you in class to help flesh out your character before you rip up the flesh of your character.
2. Horror stories are much more about what we DON'T see. Do not reveal the surprise or twist ending until...well, the ending. The most common error young horror writers make is that they reveal the "shocker" or "monster" too early. Leave clues and details. Let your reader know your characters are in for a dangerous ride, before the climactic battle between monster and protagonist. Save this for the last paragraph or two of your short story (or chapter, if you are writing a horror novel).
3. Remember to use imagery. To use imagery you will need to use some of these techniques: similes, metaphors, symbols, description of smells and touch, description of heat and temperature (or lack thereof).
4. Create a "unity of effect" as Edgar Allan Poe says. All your details should word together toward a mood-setting goal. After all, mood is created by details--and details in ANY story (horror or otherwise) is very important.
5. Have fun. A story that YOU, as the writer, get into--the more enjoyable for the audience/reader.

4th period, we will be delivering speeches. Please log off from your station at the first ring. By the second bell, you should be in room A240 and ready to deliver your speech. Have your cards ready.