Old Dominion University's Tidewater Writing Project 15th Annual Writing Camp

**Updates for 2011 are in process. The site will be updated shortly meanwhile download the

2011 application

Writing Camp is fun for everyone! It's for kids who love to write and those who need more experience. Writing camp introduces styles and techniques used by published authors. Each child will work at his own ability level and apply these techniques to greatly improve composition skills. Campers play with drama and language to create pieces worthy of publishing. Camp concludes with a publishing celebration for campers and their families.

The camp is owned and operated by Tidewater Writing Project Training Consultants, Terri Darnell and Karen Reidelbach who have successfully implemented writing workshops in schools throughout Virginia. All TWPC staff instructors are trained members of the National Writing Project and its local affiliate the Tidewater Writing Project at Old Dominion University.

Course Descriptions: Classes are grouped by age and writing experience. Courses are updated annually and can be repeated, as there is a new curriculum each summer.

CREATIVE WRITING I: Fundamental storytelling techniques are developed to create a book to treasure forever. Using original personal narratives, the foundation of all writing, young writers explore the power of descriptive language. Topics include action, dialogue, sensory images, character development, and elaboration. Campers play with drama and language to develop their unique writing styles.
Ages: Entering grades 2-6

CREATIVE WRITING II: Moving from personal narratives into reality-based fiction, storytelling techniques are combined with plot analysis. Topics include building tension and conflict, enhancing the setting, embedding details, and deeper character development. Designed for experienced writers. Prerequisite of Creative Writing course recommended.
Ages: Entering grades 5-8


Registration Code Dates Time
Friends School, Virginia Beach ***extension option
Laskin Road/Hilltop
FS1 July 6 - July 16 9:30-11:45
Friends School, Virginia Beach ***extension option
Laskin Road/Hilltop
FS2 July 29 - July 30 9:30-11:45
Cedar Road Elementary, Chesapeake CR July 12 - July 23
No class July 16
9:30-11:45
Old Donation Center for the
Gifted and Talented,
Virginia Beach
ODCGT August 2 - August 13
No class Aug. 6
9:30-11:45
Norfolk, Location TBA WS August 2 - August 13 9:30-11:30

*** Friends School offers extended camp hours and activities for writing campers. Registration via www.friends-school.org For more information contact tmegan@friends-school.org.

Registration Fees: $175 due by June 29. (This includes tuition, snack, supplies, and camp T-shirt and non-refundable $35 registration fee.) Sibling discount $160 per child. Add $15 late fee after June 29.

Transportation: Campers must provide own transportation to camp locations.

Confirmation: Campers will receive written confirmation of acceptance to camp. A detailed information, camp policy, and consent form package is mailed with confirmation.

Payment and Enrollment : TIDEWATER WRITING PROJECT CAMP c/o Terri Darnell 2228 Laurel Cove Drive Virginia Beach, VA 23454. Checks made payable to TIDEWATER WRITING PROJECT CAMP, LLC.

Click here to download the 2011 application

Our FAQ section is full of valuable information on our camps.