Introduction

Hello, Year 7! Today, we’re going to explore how to create your own horror and fantasy stories. These genres are exciting because they let us use our imagination and take readers on thrilling adventures! Let’s dive in and learn some key skills to help you write your own spooky tales or magical worlds.

Understanding Horror and Fantasy

What is Horror Writing?

Horror writing is all about creating feelings of fear and suspense. It often includes scary characters, creepy settings, and unexpected twists. Think of stories like Dracula or films like The Shining.

What is Fantasy Writing?

Fantasy writing transports readers to magical worlds with extraordinary creatures and epic adventures. This genre often includes wizards, dragons, and enchanted forests. Some famous examples are Harry Potter and The Lord of the Rings.

Key Rules for Writing Horror and Fantasy

1. Create Vivid Settings

  • Horror: Use dark, eerie descriptions. For example, “The old house creaked with every gust of wind, its windows like dark eyes watching.”
  • Fantasy: Build a world full of wonder. For example, “In the enchanted forest, trees sparkled with golden leaves, and mythical creatures roamed freely.”

2. Develop Interesting Characters

  • Horror: Your characters should have fears. For example, a brave hero who is scared of the dark can create tension.
  • Fantasy: Create characters with unique abilities. For example, a young witch who can talk to animals.

3. Use Strong Emotions

  • Horror: Make readers feel fear, anxiety, or tension. Use words that evoke strong feelings.
  • Fantasy: Inspire wonder and excitement. Make readers feel like they want to join the adventure.

4. Include Plot Twists

  • Horror: Just when it seems safe, add a scary surprise. For example, the hero discovers the ghost was once a friend.
  • Fantasy: Introduce unexpected challenges. For example, the hero learns they are the key to saving the kingdom.

Tips for Writing

  1. Read Examples: Look for horror and fantasy stories. Notice how the authors build tension or create magical worlds.
  2. Brainstorm Ideas: Write down what scares you or what you dream about. Use these ideas for your stories.
  3. Outline Your Story: Plan the beginning, middle, and end. This helps keep your story focused.
  4. Edit Your Work: After writing, read your story again. Look for ways to make it scarier or more magical.

Questions for Practice

Easy Level Questions

  1. What is horror writing?
  2. What is fantasy writing?
  3. Name a famous horror book.
  4. Name a famous fantasy book.
  5. What is a key emotion in horror writing?
  6. What do characters in fantasy stories often have?
  7. What should your setting in a horror story be like?
  8. How can you make a character interesting?
  9. Why is it important to include plot twists?
  10. What does editing help you do?

Medium Level Questions

  1. Describe a setting for a horror story.
  2. Create a character who could be in a fantasy story.
  3. Write a scary twist for a horror story.
  4. What is the role of fear in horror writing?
  5. How can magical creatures enhance a fantasy story?
  6. Give an example of a strong emotion in a fantasy story.
  7. Why do we use vivid descriptions in our writing?
  8. How can a character’s background influence a horror story?
  9. What makes a plot twist effective?
  10. Name two ways to brainstorm ideas for stories.

Hard Level Questions

  1. Analyse how fear is built in a horror story you’ve read.
  2. Compare and contrast horror and fantasy writing.
  3. Discuss the importance of character development in your stories.
  4. Write a short paragraph describing a terrifying event.
  5. Create a fantasy world with its own rules and creatures.
  6. How can setting influence the mood of a story?
  7. What techniques can you use to show a character’s fear?
  8. Explain how you can use dialogue to build tension in horror writing.
  9. How can you make your fantasy story relatable to readers?
  10. Write a mini-outline for a horror story including a twist.

Conclusion

Now you have some exciting tools to start writing your own horror and fantasy stories. Remember, use your imagination, and don’t be afraid to be creative. Happy writing!

Answers

Easy Level Answers

  1. Horror writing is about creating fear and suspense.
  2. Fantasy writing transports readers to magical worlds.
  3. Dracula.
  4. Harry Potter.
  5. Fear.
  6. Unique abilities.
  7. Dark and eerie.
  8. Give them fears or strengths.
  9. It keeps the story interesting.
  10. It helps improve your story.

Medium Level Answers

  1. A haunted house with creaky floors and flickering lights.
  2. A dragon who turns into a human.
  3. The hero discovers that the monster is their long-lost sibling.
  4. It creates tension and keeps readers engaged.
  5. They can make the story more imaginative and thrilling.
  6. Wonder and excitement.
  7. It helps readers visualize the story.
  8. It can show their motivations and reactions.
  9. It surprises the reader and keeps them guessing.
  10. Write down ideas, draw, or talk about them.

Hard Level Answers

  1. Fear is built through suspenseful descriptions and unexpected events.
  2. Horror focuses on fear, while fantasy focuses on magic and adventure.
  3. Well-developed characters are relatable and drive the plot.
  4. “The shadows danced menacingly as the door creaked open.”
  5. A world where the sky is purple, and animals can speak.
  6. It sets the tone and atmosphere for the story.
  7. Use body language and internal thoughts.
  8. Characters’ conversations can reveal their fears and intentions.
  9. By including real-life emotions and struggles.
  10. Beginning: Introduce the setting, Middle: The conflict arises, End: The twist and resolution.