Western Massachusetts Writing Project Offers Summer Youth Writing Programs

WMWP flyer

The Western Massachusetts Writing Project (WMWP), a National Writing Project site, is offering three programs this summer for young writers. Each program is facilitated by a WMWP teacher-­consultant and includes visits from guest writers.

Program hours are 9 a.m.-3 p.m. The cost is $300/week, plus $25 registration fee. Lunch is included. A limited number of scholarships are available. To apply for a scholarship or to register for a program, visit https://www.umass.edu/wmwp/youth-writing-programs

Poetry Slam, Grades: 6-­12, June 25-­29

Your words can empower you ­­and motivate others to think and act differently. Are you a middle school or high school student interested in writing and/or performing poetry? Whether your notebooks are full of ideas, rhymes, or free verse, or you just have ideas that you’d like to explore in a supportive environment, then the Poetry Slam is for you. This program focuses on the writing and performance of spoken word poetry. We will read, watch and discuss published and performed poetry, talk about craft, explore writing exercises, and learn to perform our own work with the help of slam coaches. Come to be inspired to question and challenge the world around you through the spoken word.

Young Journalists, Grades: 3-­5, July 9­-13

This workshop is for young writers entering grades 3-­5 who are eager to question, explore and respond to the world around them. We will develop a big question based on group interest and get to visit and interview experts on the UMass Amherst campus. There will be opportunities for inquiry, research, lively discussions, and written reflection. All participants, including emerging writers, will find the power of their unique writing voice, hone their skills, and make new friends.

Creative Writing, Grades: 6­-12, July 23-­27

This summer, start that novel you’ve always wanted to write, or finish the one you’ve been working on forever. Try your hand at poetry, personal essay, and persuasion. We will use creative prompts to start new pieces and feedback circles to get responses to our work. Special attention will be payed to writing for social justice purposes—to examine our identities and create social change. Opportunities for publishing will be explored and encouraged.