Suspense Lab: Tension, Clues & TwistsAges 12-15

writing

Suspense Lab: Tension, Clues & Twists

Kristen Freeman

Kristen Freeman

5.0(18)
$14/class
6 Classes

No Active Sessions Currently Scheduled

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Course Description

Mystery & Suspense Writing Lab is a writing-focused course for students ages 12–15 who enjoy suspenseful stories and want to learn how authors keep readers hooked. In this class, students study classic mystery and suspense short stories to uncover the techniques writers use to build tension, create suspense, and deliver satisfying reveals. Rather than focusing on grammar drills or formulaic writing, the course emphasizes author’s craft—including pacing, foreshadowing, point of view, and the strategic use of clues. Each story is explored over two weeks. During the first week, students read and analyze the mentor text, discussing how suspense is created and why the story works. In the following week, students write an original suspense or mystery story inspired by those techniques, applying what they’ve learned while developing their own voice. Throughout the course, students receive guidance and feedback as they experiment with: Building tension through pacing Planting clues and red herrings Using point of view to shape suspense Writing twists and endings that feel earned By the end of the class, students will have written multiple original suspense stories and gained confidence in crafting mysteries that are engaging, thoughtful, and age-appropriate. This course is a great fit for students who enjoy mystery and suspense and are ready for a challenging, creative writing experience.

KF

Meet Your Teacher

Kristen Freeman

Elementary Teacher | Orton Gillingham Trained | Reading, Writing, Grammar, and Phonics | Bachelor's in Education | Passionate Teacher for Fun Interactive Learning