InstructionsWrite a short story in any mode or style (except for allegory), and as long as it has a traditional, rising-action plot with well-developed characters. It can include flashbacks and other plot devices, but the base plot should be chronological and mostly continuous (few segment breaks). No O'Henry twists or suicides! Note: because this piece is likely to be short, it's important that you don't take on a narrative too long in duration. Covering large amounts of time in few pages can result in poor pacing, weak scene development, unearned endings and flat characters. Evaluation Criteria Your story should heed the instructions above, and be well-paced with effective hooks and a clear situation, problem, or conflict. Scenes should be detailed and clearly demarcated. The ending should be earned and avoid sentimentality, cleverness, or a last-minute twist. Characters should be round, distinct, and complex. All material should be edited and proofed for clarity, elegance, and adherence to mechanical conventions. I first assign a grade to your story, where: A = outstanding. Meets all of the stated criteria and instructions exceptionally well. Excels in inventiveness, originality, and energy, realitve to work produced generally in 323. Well-edited and proofed. Publishable with a bit more work. F = unacceptable. Story either fails to meet any of the stated criteria, or demonstrates severe oversights or weaknesses in significant areas. I then fine-tune that grade with points: A = 14-15
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