1. A Guide to great writing
Tips and strategies for getting the most out of your ideas.

2. Narrative Structure
orientation > complication > resolution Setting up your story Developing the situation How does it all work out

3. Get right to the action
Select unexpected topics; create complications…they add interest.
Avoid long introductions and lengthy descriptions.
Avoid just simply recounting events with no complications…BORING!

4. Clever techniques Foreshadowing/flashback Red herrings/cliff hangers
Twist
Evaluation/reflection
Circular or parallel plots
Don’t spoil your writing with a WEAK ending like…Then I woke up or They all lived happily ever after

5. Characters and setting
Select details to create distinct, memorable characters. You might use convincing dialogue to show character traits or reactions.
Choose details to create a sense of the place and atmosphere. The setting could be used to create suspense.

6. Language Use language that makes the story seem clearer or more real.
Could a literary device add impact? What about a simile or metaphor? The use of onomatopoeia can create suspense…BUT be careful, don’t include them if it makes your writing seem contrived.
Think of other words for ‘says’.

7. Stand out from the gang
Don’t be predictable!

8. Show don’t tell! Let the readers SEE it for themselves
Let the readers FEEL it for themselves
Use STRONG verbs (crept, careened…)
Use dialogue for more than just talking (use it to show characters’ personalities/reactions…)
Use different senses
Open the narrative document on year 9 Narrative to explore these ideas further