What is this course?
This course is designed to help students express themselves clearly and confidently—both on paper and in front of an audience. Through guided sessions, students learn how to structure stories, write with creativity, and organize their thoughts in a way that makes sense to others. At the same time, they build public speaking skills through presentations, storytelling, and interactive speaking activities. It’s a well-balanced mix that focuses on both writing and verbal communication, encouraging students to find their voice and use it with purpose.
How does it help students?
The course helps students in more ways than one. It improves their writing skills, boosts vocabulary, and teaches them how to communicate ideas clearly. More importantly, it builds confidence—something many students struggle with, especially when speaking in public or writing under pressure. Whether they’re presenting in class, preparing for school competitions, or just trying to become better thinkers, this course gives them the tools to express themselves effectively. It’s not just about academics—it’s about helping them grow into strong, thoughtful communicators.
Our Instructors
At Pen and Podium, we believe great teaching begins with deep knowledge and a passion for sharing it. That’s why our Creative Writing instructors hold advanced degrees—Masters in English or Literature—ensuring that every session is rich with insight, creativity, and expert guidance.
Our Creative Writing & Public Speaking curriculum combines the power of written expression with confident oral communication. Students learn to craft compelling stories, persuasive essays, and meaningful poetry while developing the skills to present their ideas effectively to any audience. From elementary students writing their first "pet dragon" stories to high school students delivering powerful speeches and creating college-ready portfolios, our program builds both creative confidence and practical communication skills.
• Nouns & Descriptions
• Verbs & Narratives
• Pronouns
• Adjectives
• Articles & Opinions
• Prepositions
• Conjunctions
• Adverbs & Dialogue
• Fantasy & Punctuation
• Poetry
• Letters
• Book Reading & Story Retelling
With Added Complexity in:
• Tenses (Past/Present)
• Sensory Adjectives
• How-to Writing (Sequencing)
• Picture-Prompt Letters & Critical Thinking
• Sentence Types & Descriptions
• Nouns & Narratives
• Verbs & Story Building
• Adjectives & Characters
• Pronouns & Opinions
• Adverbs & Book Reports
• Informational Writing
• Dialogue with Quotation Marks
• Conjunctions & Compound Sentences
• Poetry
• Letters & Emails
• Final Story Project
With Additional Focus On:
• Abstract/Collective Nouns
• Tense Consistency
• Dialogue & Conflict Writing
• Figurative Language in Poetry
• Research-Based Informational Writing
• Sentence Variety & Memoirs
• Verb Tenses in Time Travel Stories
• Tone Through Modifiers
• Argumentative Essays
• Literary Summaries & Internal Thoughts
• Capstone Story Project
• Descriptive & Narrative Writing
• Grammar Mastery
• Book & Character Analysis
• Informational & Opinion Essays
• Poetry with Figurative Language
• Realistic Fiction
• Speech Writing & Portfolio Compilation
With Advanced Focus On:
• Advanced Sensory Vocabulary
• Theme & Symbolism Exploration
• Compare & Contrast Essays
• Argumentative Writing with Citations
• Literary Essays, Public Speaking & Showcases
• Memoirs with Voice
• Flashbacks & Foreshadowing
• Grammar for Style
• Research & Citations (MLA/APA)
• Editorial & Debate Writing
• Scriptwriting & Slam Poetry
• Portfolio & Reflection
1. Expository & Analytical Essays – Structured logic and thesis development
2. Short Story Literary Analysis – Themes, symbolism, and author’s craft
3. Argumentative & Persuasive Writing – Rhetoric, rebuttals, and counterclaims
4. Poetry Analysis & Original Poetry – Deep reading and creative expression
5. Research Writing – Source evaluation, citations, synthesis
6. Realistic Fiction Writing – Narrative arcs, dialogue, and emotion
7. Classic Novel Study – Literary essays, debates, historical context
8. Speech Writing & Rhetorical Devices – Powerful public speaking
9. Media Literacy – Digital writing, blogs, audience analysis
10. Drama Study – Shakespearean and modern theatrical analysis
11. College & Career Writing – Resumes, essays, personal statements
12. Year-End Portfolio & Reflection – Curated writing showcase and self-assessment





