Narrative Writing Required OGT Writing Prompt Notes

What is Narrative Writing? Narrative Writing tells a story or part of a story. ◦Can also be a reflection / exploration of the author’s values – still told as a story. Used in novels, short stories, biographies, autobiographies, historical accounts, essays, poems, and plays. Follows a specific format (just like other types of writing styles – ex. persuasive / expository)

Characteristics of a Narrative Plot structure ◦Introduction ◦Rising Action ◦Climax ◦Falling Action ◦Resolution / Conclusion ◦Still a five-paragraph structure – one paragraph dedicated to each of the above is a safe format. Characteristics ◦Conflict ◦Characterization ◦Setting ◦Theme ◦Point of View ◦Sequencing - order ◦Transitions

Formatting a Narrative Should include strong description and detail. ◦We want to be able to picture your story happening. The reader should be able to reflect on your story - even retell it, if necessary. Can include dialogue ◦Only if you know how to correctly punctuate it.. Point of view = first person (I, we, us)

The Introduction – important! Reveals what type of narrative essay it is ◦Event/recurring activity, personal experience, observation, etc. Should make or support some point / purpose ◦1 st or last sentence is a good place to reveal the point / main idea / purpose

Body of the Essay – 3 paragraphs Rising Action / Climax / Falling Action This is where you develop your story, and truly tell the events / experiences that make up the prompt. ◦Keep it focused and connected to the main point / purpose that you set up in the intro. ◦Use strong verbs and vivid language!

Resolution / Conclusion Wrap up and finalize the story in this final paragraph. Problems are not truly solved until this point (not during the falling action). Make a final connection back to your main point / purpose ◦Unconsciously remind the reader why this is a story worth reading / why it’s significant…

Prewriting a Narrative Divide a piece of paper into 5 squares. Label them as follows: Introduction Rising Action Climax Falling Action Resolution

Narrative Prompt We have all had occasions to feel proud about an achievement. The achievement did not have to be world class. But, at the time, you felt proud. Write about one of those events in which you were truly proud.