Young Authors' Studio
Young Authors' Studio (YAS) is a free six-week writing program for youth in grades 5-12 that takes place on Saturdays at Arizona State University’s Polytechnic campus. The program has a unique service-teaching-research mission.
Program goals
- YAS aims to provide youth in the community (grades 5-12) a free writing program that inspires creativity, increases confidence, strengthens academic writing skills, offers access to multiple forms of composition, and builds bridges to college.
- YAS aims to provide ASU students enrolled in ENG 484/584: Mentoring Youth Writers real-world experience as they plan and promote a writing program, mentor youth writers, problem-solve as a team, and communicate with multiple audiences.
- YAS aims to provide researchers, including graduate students, opportunities to study writing and mentoring, with the goal of advancing writing education beyond this program.
Program format
Each YAS writing series consists of five themed workshops and a public performance and writing gallery. Since ASU student mentors design breakout sessions based in part on their own interests and areas of expertise, the program takes a slightly different shape each year. Every workshop includes a journal activity, a choice of two breakout sessions, and check-in time with an assigned mentor. Revision strategies, performance tips, and goal setting are also integrated into the program.
Workshop 1: Narrative Forms
Possible Breakouts: six-word memoirs, short stories, novel planning, etc.
Workshop 2: Art and Comics
Possible Breakouts: graphic novel planning, art and design elements, superhero study, etc.
Workshop 3: Poetry and Music
Possible Breakouts: spoken word poetry, songwriting, haikus, etc.
Workshop 4: Film and Drama
Possible Breakouts: screenplays, storyboarding, film principles, etc.
Workshop 5: Genre Exploration
Possible Breakouts: science fiction, horror, memoir, etc.
Writing Gallery and Public Performance
Youth writers are invited to display their work and read a piece.
ASU student mentors meet with the director for several weeks before the YAS program begins and then before and after every YAS workshop. The ASU student mentors come from all disciplines, and no prior teaching experience is required.