A Writing Game: ''Stuff and Nonsense''

Looking for a easy way to practice basic fiction writing or mystery writing skills?

This simple game will help you develop your ability to conceptualize possible story lines by inviting you to link multiple objects within a specific imaginary situation.

You will need

A pencil and paper for writing; a way to note down points (if you choose to play for points); a means by which you can print the cards; and scissors to cut the cards.

Instructions

1. Cut out the ‘objects’ cards and the ‘scenario’ cards.

2. Create two or more teams of one or more people.

3. Pick 4 cards.

4. Concoct a situation or series of events in which all four items are connected. Write it down (you may want to choose one person to do the writing). Take a maximum of 10 minutes to complete this step.

5. Once the time is up, share your scenario with each other. If you are playing for points, give your team one point for each object that you managed to plausibly include. If not, just enjoy the ‘story’.

6. Then, take turns picking one more object card at a time, and adding that item to your ‘plot’. After each addition, share how you have inserted the object into your scenario. If you are playing for points, give yourself a point if it seems to be a success.

7. Take turns until there are no objects left (or you run out of ideas!).

8. Polish your final story, adding whatever you need to make it complete, and read it aloud!