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Novels (CWRI30001)

Undergraduate level 3Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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Semester 1
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This subject is designed to help students conceive, research and begin the writing of a novel, and to articulate an understanding of contemporary novels. It will introduce students to theoretical and historical approaches to the understanding and practice of extended narrative or novel writing. Students will read a variety of narrative-based and theoretical texts with emphasis on contemporary works. The focus of this subject is on the opening section of the student’s own extended work of fiction, the major assessment being on this opening part of their novel or extended narrative.

Intended learning outcomes

On successful completion of this subject, students should have:

  • Independently conceived, designed and started to research a novel, with an awareness of how it adheres to (or subverts) contemporary literary conventions
  • Demonstrated a sophisticated and critical appreciation of a work of extended fiction as a contemporary cultural intervention, which is enriched by conceptual and thematic as well as literary research
  • Developed a heightened awareness of macrostructural narrative design and a range of fictional and stylistic modes through subject readings, class discussions and exercises
  • Contributed to collaborative workshops, providing peers with constructive, critical feedback on their novels-in-progress, and effectively responding to criticism of their own work.

Generic skills

At the completion of this subject, students will gain the following generic skills:

  • The ability to apply highly developed analytic, independent, and critical skills to written texts
  • The ability to apply highly developed problem-solving skills to creative and analytic tasks
  • The ability to complete written tasks to a high level of literacy and communication
  • The ability to tackle unfamiliar problems develop cognitive skills and openness to new ideas
  • The ability to plan and develop their own work
  • The ability to participate effectively in collaborative learning
  • The ability to engage in constructive public discourse while respecting differences.

Last updated: 23 November 2023