HIS Academics: Creative Writing

By Dani Htut

Introduction

At Hokkaido International School, students and teachers believe in the development of all human beings, including the growth that comes through the outdoors, service learning, character-enriched education, and arts and music. This year, with our annual theme of kaizen (continuous improvement), we encourage the HIS community to seek meaningful ways to adapt and grow in all aspects of life. Stories, as John Truby’s concept of the dramatic code suggests, are built on the fundamental idea that every individual has the potential to become a better version of themselves. Both authors and characters who embody this principle serve as guiding models, inspiring readers to navigate life with integrity and purpose. In our creative writing class at HIS, we embrace this idea as we integrate this into our narratives. Writing with passion while deepening our understanding of these transformative ideas.

Why Do We Write?

Human beings thrive on creation. A study published in International Journal of Education & Literacy Studies reveals that creative writing can improve students' writing abilities, language proficiency, and communication skills. It also positively impacts their overall academic performance. Equally important is social and emotional development. Engaging in storytelling activities allows them to explore their identities, understand others' perspectives, and build meaningful connections with peers and teachers. At Hokkaido International School we value literacy, and HIS Writes works to directly support not only the writing modality but all of the other benefits that come with creative writing.

The Power of Writing in HIS Creative Writing

Human beings are natural creators, and storytelling has been a way to express ideas, emotions, and identities. Research published in the International Journal of Education & Literacy Studies highlights the profound impact of creative writing on students, improving their writing abilities, language proficiency, and communication skills while also enhancing overall academic performance. Beyond academics, creative writing plays a crucial role in social and emotional development. Engaging in storytelling allows students to explore their own identities, gain insight into different perspectives, and build meaningful connections with their peers and teachers. At Hokkaido International School, literacy is a core value, and HIS Writes serves as a platform to nurture not only writing skills but also the many cognitive, emotional, and social benefits that come with creative expression.

Inside the HIS Creative Writing Classroom

Each class begins with students reading a self-selected book for 15 minutes, identifying compelling passages for inspiration. They then spend 10 minutes transcribing and emulating a chosen excerpt in their personal Google document, the Creative Writing Scratchpad, where they also set goals for their work. This encourages focus, motivation, and accountability of their assignments. For the remainder of the period, students engage in one of three creative tasks: developing their own original stories, completing an MTA (a structured analysis of storytelling elements in narrative texts), or creating an Instagram carousel for HIS Publications that breaks down John Truby’s storytelling concepts. The HIS Creative Writing course not only nurtures a passion for storytelling but also strengthens the school’s literacy community. Student work is shared through the school website and Instagram, and exceptional pieces may be selected for HIS Writes, the school’s annual short story competition.

HIS Writes: Showcasing Student Storytelling

HIS Writes is a school-wide short story competition open to all students in grade 6 and above, but it serves as a particularly exciting opportunity for Creative Writing students to showcase their skills. With more time to refine their work, these students can demonstrate what they have learned throughout the year and share the stories they have been developing. Designed to bring student writing beyond the classroom, HIS Writes fosters creativity and encourages students to engage deeply with narrative writing. This is widely considered the foundation of all forms of written expression. This annual event celebrates the power of storytelling, giving students a platform to share their voices and ideas with the wider school community.