These writing classes are sponsored by The Writers’ Workshop, a non-profit center since 1985. Classes meet at Providence Presbyterian Church, Providence Road, Charlotte. Registration is in advance only at www.twwoa.org, or by mail.

June 27: Writing for Magazines & Newspapers with Jodi Helmer — Participants will learn how to develop ideas for articles and how to turn life experiences into essays for national magazines, newspapers and literary journals. Discussion will cover the elements of a successful article, what editors are looking for, how to submit your work, and where to find the best markets for publishing stories and essays. The class includes writing exercises and review. Helmer has been published in National Geographic, Woman’s Day, Family Circle and Traveler, among others. Meets Saturday, noon-5 p.m. $75, or $70 for Workshop members.      

July 11: Science Fiction Writing with Norris Orbach — The class will discuss award- winning science fiction stories, and learn techniques of science fiction writing such as creating a simplified plot, and how to create a workable world in a strange environment. Themes such as robots, time travel and extraterrestrials will also be examined. Students may bring up to 5 pages or a story idea to the class for review. Orbach has taught writing for more than 16 years at community colleges, and at UNCA’s OLLI Center. Meets Saturday, noon-5 p.m. $75, or $70 for Workshop members.

July 18: Writing Your Memoirs with Karen Ackerson — Participants will learn how to turn personal and family experiences into a compelling memoir for family and friends, or for publication. In-class writing exercises will help to identify life-changing events, to be used as the backbone of a memoir. Discussion will include creating a sense of place, dialogue, and enhancing one’s writing style. Ackerson, a biographer and Senior Editor at The Renbourne Editorial Agency, has taught workshops throughout the Southeast for more than 20 years. Meets Saturday, noon-5 p.m. $75, or $70 for Workshop members.

Aug. 15: Short Fiction Workshop with Richard Krawiec — In this writing-intensive class we will explore a range of story types.  We will read, analyze what makes an effective story, and write and revise our own. Emphasis will be on writing sequenced action, effective dialogue, how to organize and integrate description and theme, and revision techniques. Krawiec has published two novels, a story collection, plus books of poetry and plays.  His fiction has appeared in Shenandoah, Sou-wester, Ampersand and many other literary magazines, and was featured in the 100 best list in Best American Short Stories. Meets Saturday, noon-5 p.m. $75/$70 members.