A seminar-based paper that examines how factual information can best be popularized through Creative Non-Fiction Writing.

While concentrating on writing for books and magazine articles, writing for natural history and science documentaries is also considered.

Objectives:

• Examine examples of non-fiction writing that succeed in popularizing science
• Explore ways of enhancing the communication and appeal of factual information in writing
• Develop critiquing skills for critically examining the effectiveness of non-fiction writing

Examples of components of this paper:

• The written word: Thoreau to Lopez
• Tuning into natural history
• The use of humour
• The personal essay
• Critiquing
• Ways of being more creative
• Presentations by award-winning natural history writers on their work

Examples of practical exercises associated with this paper:

• Write a magazine article
• Write a personal essay
• Critique an example of non-fiction writing