Writing Science Stories

On completion of this module you will be better prepared to: identify key literary or genre features of non-fiction science writing, and compose artistically coherent and technically competent science writing that responds to the stylistic or genre features discussed on the module and responds to the needs of relevant audiences.

This module will take a practical approach. You will study a variety of example texts which exemplify specific approaches to, and genres of, narrative science writing. You will then apply this technical knowledge to your own craft in a supportive workshop environment.

Topics will include creative narrative nonfiction, persuasive writing, journalistic feature writing and memoir. You will have the opportunity to study one of these in depth and produce your own piece of science writing.

The sessions will be in a workshop format, with a short theoretical introduction to an aspect of science writing, followed by practical sessions where you can try out what you have learned, share work, get personal feedback, and critically appraise carefully chosen readings. The module is designed to develop your skills and confidence as a science writer, encouraging you to find your strengths and build upon them.

At the end of the eight-week module, you will have produced a piece of science writing for assessment. These could be added to your portfolio and/or submitted to various Imperial publications such as I, Science, or Felix, as well as other associated magazines, such as Tamarind (an Art/Science magazine run by Horizons creative writing Alumni).

• Coursework: Piece of narrative science writing (1,100-1,300 words) submitted after the end of term (100%).

This will be in a format agreed with the module lead. It will be developed out of one of the pieces of work you have begun and worked on in class.

You will receive one piece of written formative feedback on this from the module leader and one piece of written summative feedback on your finished work. Formative feedback will be delivered in time for you to use it to refine your work (e.g. during the eight-week teaching period, and at least a week before the final hand-in date.)

• ECTS value: 0
• Requirements: You must be prepared to attend all classes and to spend about an hour a week preparing for each session
• This module is designed as an undergraduate Level 4 course. For an explanation of levels, view the Imperial Horizons Level Descriptors page.‌