1. Narrative Writing Required Writing Prompt Notes

2. 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)

3. Characteristics of a Narrative Plot structure ◦Introduction ◦Rising Action ◦Climax ◦Falling Action ◦Resolution / Conclusion Characteristics ◦Conflict ◦Characterization ◦Setting ◦Theme ◦Point of View ◦Sequencing - order ◦Transitions

4. 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)

5. 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 ◦Do NOT start with sentences such as: In this story I am going to tell you about a time… 

6. Body of the Essay 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! IMAGERY!!! Use sensory details.

7. 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… DO NOT write…I have just told you…or thank you for reading my story.

8. Narrative Prompts When looking back over your past fifteen years, what was the hardest thing you ever had to do? What time in your life made you the most proud? What is your absolute favorite memory? If you could go back in time, what one thing would you change?

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