Anecdotes Your Story
Learning Goal Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, well ‐ chosen details, and well ‐ structured event sequences. a. Engage and orient the reader by setting out a problem, situation, or observation and its significance, establishing one or multiple point(s) of view, and introducing a narrator and/or characters; create a smooth progression of experiences or events. b. Use narrative techniques, such as dialogue, pacing, description, reflection, and multiple plot lines, to develop experiences, events, and/or characters. c. Use a variety of techniques to sequence events so that they build on one another to create a coherent whole and build toward a particular tone and outcome (e.g., a sense of mystery, suspense, growth, or resolution). d. Use precise words and phrases, telling details, and sensory language to convey a vivid picture of the experiences, events, setting, and/or characters. e. Provide a conclusion that follows from and reflects on what is experienced, observed, or resolved over the course of the narrative. (11 ‐ 12.W.3)
On a sheet of paper: Write a list of 5 “green” words that describe you. They need to be abstract. They need to have strong connotation. They can be positive or positive and negative.
A Story An anecdote is a short story that shows a slice of your life. It is a small event described with detail to help the reader feel like they were there. It demonstrates a part of your character. College Applications that require personal statements. Scholarship and Admissions interviews. Employment Cover Letters Interviews Life Parenting
Why a story? Everyone learns through stories, because they are entertaining and multi-faceted. Stories draw the audience in and help you connect with them. Stories (and how you tell them) can reveal intricate things about your personality, character, and decision-making skills. Telling a story can help you create a lasting impression. Good for interviews and admissions.
How to Start Start thinking about things that have happened in your life that have significance. Jot a few ideas down on your paper as we go. Memorable Meals Most people eat and have strong connotations with meals. EX: Christmas morning Outdoor Activities Can show your adventurous or helpful spirit, especially if you are shy. EX: Sedona – Slide Rock Challenges Can show your humanity and sophistication. EX: First day of school – 32 pairs of eyes Failure Can show the depth of your maturity and your resilience. EX: GRE Math Commitment Can show what you are passionate about and how you face/overcome obstacles. **Take a couple minutes to come up with a few ideas for stories.
Once you have an Idea Look at your story ideas and match them to one or two of your green words. Start by answering the 5 w’s: Where, Why, Who, When, What, … and how Try to visualize the situation Think about the sounds, sights, tastes, smells … Like you are watching it on Youtube. Limit your story to right before the peak. Write the first draft of your story. 1-2 paragraphs Casual Register Do not worry so much about grammar.
Refine and Revise Go through your story and take out any information that is not pertinent to your story. Vivid details are imperative for a great story. Things you particularly remember. Add adjectives and adverbs to sentences that seem blah. Check your grammar. Make sure you have varied sentence length. Too many details will irritate your audience. Some dialog will help draw your audience in.
Tomorrow **Opening lines … One dark and stormy night … Contest for tomorrow Swap stories with your shoulder partner. Read the stories out loud to each other. Make any changes you feel necessary.
Common College Application Prompts