Narrative Writing

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Narrative Writing

• Writing to tell a story

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Narratives

1. Decide on the main events (plot)
2. Describe the setting with visual details
3. Create interesting characters
4. Build toward an important turning point
5. Resolve the problem of the story

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TIPS- hit the pause button

• Imagine the story as a running video, during an
  interesting moment, pause!
• Stop to capture description
• Focus on object, character, setting
• Action halts-focus on one thing and describe for
  4-5 sentences

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TIPS- show a feeling, dont just tell it!

• Stop to capture a character's feelings
• Focus on feelings/body language
• Showing a feeling should be 4-5 sent.
• Describe physical appearance without making a
  general statement of the feeling

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TIP- Use the 1,2,3 punch to build suspense

• 1-give a hint and then describe the characters
  reaction through thought or action
• 2-greater hint or larger action
• 3-even greater hint, character makes the
  plot-turning discovery

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TIP- Dont speed through the best part! Hit the
slow motion!

• Slow motion should be used at the climax
• At the time the problem is solved
• Pinnacle of interest and excitement
• Describe frame by frame!
• Break down actions and add character feelings and
  dialogue

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TIP- Sometimes you need to plan before you plan

• Helps to focus story
• Stops story wandering!
• Complete story plan before making 4-square
• Example
• This is a story about_________________
• The problem is that_________________
• The problem is solved when____________