This writing activity explores the three main aspects of writing a story – creating a setting, character, and plot. Writing a collaborative story helps writers brainstorm together and expand their creativity. For an imaginative, creative writer’s group, consider this collaborative writing activity.
Following the three steps in this writing challenge helps writers practise the three main areas of story writing: creating characters, setting and plot.
Creating a Character
The first step in this activity is for each member of the group to create a character. Your character can be anyone you like. Create your character as through he or she is a main character, regardless of whether they may later become a minor character. Remember to give your character human-like qualities to make him or her relatable and interesting for readers.
Consider creating a back story, as it will help you develop the character and help others in the group know the character. It is important not just for you, but for others in the group to have a sense of who your character is. Character back stories will also come in handy when story writing begins.
Creating a Setting
Step two: as a group, create a setting where your collaborative story will take place. Try to do this collaboratively, agreeing on the best setting for your story. Remember that a story’s setting also includes time period and season; both are important for the development of the story’s plot and characters.
It is important for all members of the group to be familiar with the setting of the story. You may choose a popular place, one that is easy to research. You may choose a location close to where your writers group meets. You may make it up. Be creative with your setting. You may all be science fiction fans and choose to set your story in space.
Creating a Plot
Finally, the last step can be the most fun and is likely the most challenging. As a group, create a plot for your story by having each member write a scene or a section of the story, involving mainly their own character, and including the others as antagonists and minor characters. Writing a story this way may result in the story reading a bit like a series of short stories, with several protagonists.
To create more flow to the story, consider instead allowing one or a few characters take the role of protagonist in each piece of the story. Remember that regardless of the role of the character, each one is important for a well-rounded story. As each group member takes turns writing sections of the collaborative story, consider the different writing styles of each group member and how they shape the story.
Trying this group writing exercise can be a great way to brainstorm on character development, to learn to collaborate on story writing, and to appreciate the varying writing styles of your colleagues. Moreover, through this writing exercise, writers practise the three main aspects of story writing: developing plot, characters and setting.
Michelle Wright - Michelle is an avid reader and writer, with a focus on book, film and music reviews, gluten free recipes, and fiction writing "how-tos."
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