Writing in the Disciplines Video Series

What makes a one-act play different from a short story, screenplay, or novel? The answer begins with a simple idea: plays are written to be performed. In this installment of the Whitworth Composition Commons' Writing in the Disciplines series, WCC consultant Gwen Brantner introduces the fundamentals of writing one-act plays through the lens of Aristotle's six elements of drama: plot, character, thought, diction, spectacle, and song. Learn how these elements work together to create compelling theatrical experiences while remaining practical for live production. This video also explores character motivation, conflict, theme development, dialogue, staging considerations, script formatting, and the unique demands of writing for the stage. Whether you're taking a playwriting course, developing an original script, or exploring dramatic writing for the first time, this video offers a strong foundation for crafting effective one-act plays.

Think close reading is only for literature classes? Think again. In this installment of the Whitworth Composition Commons' Writing in the Disciplines series, WCC consultant Emma Carson explores how close reading analysis can strengthen critical thinking across academic fields—from communication studies and history to law, science, and beyond. Learn what close reading is, why it matters, and how writers can move beyond summary to develop deeper, more compelling analysis. The video also introduces practical strategies for close reading, including genre conventions, analytical questioning, and the "Uneven U" framework for building stronger arguments. Whether you're writing a literary analysis, conducting research, or simply trying to become a more thoughtful reader, this video offers tools to help you uncover meaning, make connections, and think more critically.

What makes a short story work? More importantly, what makes short fiction different from simply writing a shorter novel? In this installment of the Whitworth Composition Commons' Writing in the Disciplines series, WCC consultant Cristian Cruz-Vega explores the craft of short fiction and the principles that make the form uniquely powerful. Drawing on influential writers and scholars of short fiction, this video examines concepts such as economy of language, focused intensity, unified effect, and purposeful structure. Learn how successful short stories build around a central question, moment, or insight—and why every word, scene, and narrative choice matters. Whether you're drafting your first short story, studying creative writing, or responding to fiction in a writing center session, this video offers practical strategies for understanding and strengthening short fiction.

Where do you begin when faced with dozens of research articles and a literature review assignment? In this installment of the Whitworth Composition Commons' Writing in the Disciplines series, WCC consultant Ethan Evans-Ngo introduces the fundamentals of writing a literature review in psychology. Learn how literature reviews help researchers map the current state of knowledge, identify gaps in the research, and build a foundation for future studies. This video covers key elements of the psychology literature review, including APA style, locating peer-reviewed sources, synthesizing research, developing critical analysis, and organizing information effectively. Whether you're preparing for a psychology course, conducting undergraduate research, or writing your first literature review, this video offers practical strategies to help you navigate scholarly conversations with confidence.

How do schools secure funding for new programs, resources, and initiatives? The answer often begins with a well-crafted grant proposal. In this installment of the Whitworth Composition Commons' Writing in the Disciplines series, WCC consultant Jadyn Nolen introduces the fundamentals of grant proposal writing in the field of education. Learn how educational grants help schools and educators obtain funding, how to identify funding organizations whose missions align with your goals, and how to build a persuasive proposal grounded in research and local data. This video walks through the major components of an education grant proposal—including needs statements, program design, organizational capacity, evaluation plans, and budget narratives—while also offering practical advice on style, clarity, audience awareness, and professional tone. Whether you're studying education, pursuing school improvement initiatives, or seeking project funding, this video provides a strong foundation for effective grant writing.

Have you been assigned a persuasive speech and aren't sure where to start? Whether you're excited to share your ideas or nervous about speaking in front of an audience, strong persuasion begins long before you step up to the podium. In this installment of the Whitworth Composition Commons' Writing in the Disciplines series, WCC consultant Micah Smith introduces the fundamentals of writing an effective persuasive speech. Learn how to use the classical rhetorical appeals of logos, ethos, pathos, and mythos to build compelling arguments, connect with your audience, and establish credibility. This video also covers brainstorming strategies, audience analysis, organizational patterns, rhetorical devices, and speech outlining techniques that can help transform your ideas into a clear, engaging presentation. Whether you're preparing for a public speaking course, a class presentation, or a debate, this video provides practical tools for crafting persuasive speeches with confidence.