Creative Writing: Writing Scenes – Master the SORCA Method

Module 8: Writing Scenes – SORCA

Great storytelling doesn’t just happen — it’s built scene by scene.

In this immersive and practical workshop, Iain McKinnon introduces you to SORCA, a powerful framework for crafting compelling scenes with structure, depth, and emotional resonance.

Whether you're writing fiction, memoir, or screenplay, this session breaks down the core elements every scene needs — from atmosphere and action to character response and consequence. Using the SORCA method (Setting, Obstacle, Reaction, Consequence, Aftermath), you’ll learn how to write scenes that don’t just describe events, but drive story and transformation.

You’ll examine how great scenes balance tension, movement, emotion, and purpose — and how even the quietest moments can carry dramatic weight when built with intention.

This workshop blends craft insights with guided exercises, giving you practical tools to elevate your storytelling immediately.

In This Workshop, You’ll:

• Explore how to build immersive settings using the five sensory anchors of place, mood, and character perspective
• Learn to introduce obstacles and tension using the CRASH model: Conflict, Resistance, Antagonism, Stakes, and Heightened Tension
• Develop deeper characters through the DART model: Decision, Action, Reflection, and Transformation
• Understand the emotional and narrative consequences of a scene, and how to embed them meaningfully
• Craft satisfying endings using the CAST method: Connect, Advance, Seed, and Tease — keeping readers hooked and the story moving
• Analyse a sample noir scene using SORCA in action, and practise applying the model to your own work

From dynamic action to introspective moments, SORCA helps you write scenes that matter — scenes with tension, texture, and a reason to turn the page.

Resources & Continued Learning

All scene frameworks, examples, and writing exercises are available at: www.iain-mckinnon.co.uk/creative-writing-course.html

This session can be attended as a standalone workshop or as part of the full modular creative writing course. No prior modules are required.

Part of the Modular Creative Writing Course:

Module 1: Introduction to Creative Writing, Rules & PURPOSE
Module 2: Metrics, Motivation & Productivity
Module 3: What is a Novel & Genre
Module 4: Plot
Module 5: Character
Module 6: Theme
Module 7: Word Choice
Module 8: Writing Scenes – SORCA
Module 9: Dialogue
Module 10: World Building
Module 11: Language Building
Module 12: Narrative Positioning & Description over Exposition
Module 13: Concept Mapping
Module 14: Constraint and Creativity
Module 15: Defamiliarization & NLP
Module 16: Suspense, Tension, Hooks & Cliffhangers & LOCK
Module 17: Editing
Module 18: Drafting your Novel with ChatGPT
Module 19: From Hook to Inbox: Blurbs, Synopses & Query Letters for Novelists
Module 20: Author Function – Social Media Guide

http://www.iain-mckinnon.co.uk/creative-writing-course.html

Secure your spot today and let's embark on this transformative writing course together!