WRT301 Life Writing (8)

The primary aim of this subject is to explore how life experiences are researched, interpreted and represented. Students will also review theoretical issues relating to genre in the field, read examples of various forms of life writing - for example, autobiographies, memoirs, diaries, biographies, letters - and develop their skills in life writing by focussing on a variety of approaches.

Availability

Session 2 (60)
Online
Wagga Wagga Campus

Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: WRT301. Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject Information

Grading System

HD/FL

Duration

One session

School

School of Social Work and Arts

Assumed Knowledge
LIT221 or WRT210

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • be able to demonstrate an understanding of the variety of theoretical issues related to life writing;
  • be able to differentiate between different forms associated with life writing, for example, autobiography, biography, memoir;
  • be able to demonstrate an understanding of the demands of researching material, perhaps in a multiplicity of locations, for life writing;
  • be able to demonstrate an understanding of the challenges of interpreting material and decisions required to choose an appropriate medium to present it;
  • be able to present the results of their research on a life in written form.

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:
  • theoretical issues on life writing relating to genre;
  • various forms of life writing, including, autobiography, biography, memoir, diaries, letters;
  • research required for writing 'life' studies in sources such as the CSU Archives, interviews, state records, research libraries;
  • exercises exploring various genres and selection of an appropriate form for a substantial project;
  • presentation of 'work in progress' in seminars where it will be subject to critical review;

Indicative Assessment

The following table summarises the assessment tasks for the online offering of WRT301 in Session 2 2021. Please note this is a guide only. Assessment tasks are regularly updated and can also differ to suit the mode of study (online or on campus).

Item Number
Title
Value %
1
Assessment 1 - first and third person voice
25
2
Memoir
50
3
Online blog
25

The information contained in the CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: June 2022. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.

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