Question
MAIN CHARACTER
Response
What is your main character’s name?
Leo
What kind of nose does your character have? (hook, button, large, small, etc.)
small
Hair
Dark black, short
Eyes
Green slightly blue
Skin
Slightly tan
Body type
athletic build, bulky, 5’8”
Age
18
What does your main character do with their day? Do they have a job, go to school, hang out with friends?
He's a collage student and during time when he's not studying he likes hanging out with his friends at a skatepark or on the street
CONTEXT (Setting, POV, Narrator)
Response
Where does your story take place? (setting)
canada
When does your story take place? (setting)
Winter
What point of view is your story going to be told through? (1st or 3rd person, omniscient, limited, etc.)
1st person
Who is the narrator? Are they inside or outside of the story?
inside
Why is the story happening?
Leo is preparing for an annual winter skate competition
* * *
Organizing Events
Fill in the text boxes below with sequencing information you are thinking about using for your narrative. Use what you have learned in this lesson to help guide your responses. Please note, that this information may not be what you decide to write about or make it into your final piece, but will give you an idea of how these details will make your story stronger.
NARRATIVE ELEMENT
Response
Do you plan to write your story chronologically (in time order) or nonchronological (not in time order?
chronologically
1st sequence of events
Leo and his friends gather at the skatepark to practice for the competition
2nd sequence of events
He realizes that the competition is much closer than he expected and is not ready
3rd sequence of events
The day of the competition arrives
4th sequence of events
He wins
How can you make sure your sequence of events flows logically in your story?
I will make each event lead naturally to the next, with clear transitions
* * *
Using Dialogue
Fill in the text boxes below with potential conflict as well as dialogue between two characters you are thinking about using for your narrative. Use what you have learned in this lesson to help guide your responses. Please note, that this information may not be what you decide to write about or make it into your final piece, but will give you an idea of how these details will make your story stronger.
CONFLICT
Response
What is the struggle your main character faces in your story? (Hint: Not always a fight.)
Leo struggles with self-doubt and the pressure to perform well in the competition, especially since he feels unprepared
Dialogue is used to move the story forward while revealing the character. Think about how you can use dialogue effectively to make your story come alive. Your response may be dialogue or what the characters will reveal through dialogue.
DIALOGUE PROMPTS
Response
How can you use dialogue to show conflict or conflict resolution?
Through conversations with his friends, I can showcase Leo's anxiety and their encouragement or teasing, which might motivate or frustrate him
What is the relationship between the main character and another character? (such as the antagonist, best friend, parent, side character, etc.)
Leo’s best friend, Alex, pushes him to be his best while also providing comic relief, though sometimes their banter can be intense
Why is it important that this be shown through dialogue instead of told with description? What does it reveal about the character’s personality, relationship, conflict, context, etc.?
Dialogue adds authenticity to their friendship and showcases how they support and challenge each other, allowing readers to witness their dynamic directly
* * *
Developing Narratives
Fill in the text boxes below with the potential pacing and description you are thinking about using for your narrative. Use what you have learned in this lesson to help guide your responses. Please note, that this information may not be what you decide to write about or make it into your final piece, but will give you an idea of how these details will make your story stronger.
PACING and DESCRIPTION
Response
Is your story fast-paced, slow-paced, or a combination?
It is a combination
How can you speed up a sequence in your story to show action? What do you need to include to show a faster pace?
I can use short, punchy sentences and action verbs during skate tricks and the competition to create urgency
How can you slow down a sequence in your story? What do you need to include to show a slower pace?
I can use longer, descriptive sentences to reflect Leo’s thoughts or the tense moments before the competition
How will your pacing affect your main character’s conflict?
Faster pacing during practice can heighten Leo’s anxiety, while slower pacing before the competition can build suspense
How will your description affect your main character’s conflict?
Vivid descriptions of the skatepark and winter setting can enhance Leo’s feelings of isolation or excitement, mirroring his internal struggle
How will your pacing and description help the narrator reflect on the sequence of events in your story?
Pacing allows for moments of introspection where Leo can process the outcome of his actions, while description grounds the reader in his emotional state
* * *
Transitions
Fill in the text boxes below with potential transition language you are thinking about using for your narrative. Use what you have learned in this lesson to help guide your responses. Please note, that this information may not be what you decide to write about or make it into your final piece, but will give you an idea of how these details will make your story stronger.
TRANSITIONS
Response
How do you plan to transition from one sequence of events to the next? What words can you think of that will help you transition between sequences based on your chosen story order (chronological or nonchronological)?
I can use phrases like “as the days passed” or “just days before the competition.”
How can you show a time shift from one setting to another?
By stating something like, “Later that evening, under the dim streetlights…”
Think about your setting. Does your main character have a relationship to it in the past as well as the present? How can you show that time frame in your story?
I can incorporate flashbacks or memories of previous competitions to show Leo's history with the skatepark, enhancing the emotional stakes
* * *
Precise Language
Fill in the text boxes below with potential precise and sensory language you are thinking about using for your narrative. Use what you have learned in this lesson to help guide your responses. Please note, that this information may not be what you decide to write about or make it into your final piece, but will give you an idea of how these details will make your story stronger.
PRECISE LANGUAGE
Response
Think about one or more of your sequences of events. How can you show this sequence using sensory language? What does it look, smell, taste, sound, or feel like?
The cold wind bit against Leo’s face as the sound of skateboards clashing against concrete echoed around him, accompanied by shouts and laughter from friends
Think of your main character’s eye color. How can you use precise sensory language to describe them?
His green eyes glistened like emeralds under the winter sun, filled with a mix of determination and uncertainty
Think about your main character’s hair color. How can you use precise sensory language to describe it?
His dark black hair was speckled with frost, tousled from the wind, and occasionally falling into his eyes
Think about your setting. How can you use precise sensory language to help the reader picture it the way you want them to?
The skatepark lay laden with a fresh blanket of snow, its ramps and rails glistening, promising adventure beneath a pale blue sky
Think about your main character’s wardrobe. How can you use precise sensory language to describe what they wear?
Leo donned a thick, faded hoodie, frayed at the cuffs, layered over a monochrome graphic tee, and worn jeans that were snug but flexible
* * *
Figurative Language
Fill in the text boxes below with potential figurative language you are thinking about using for your narrative. Use what you have learned in this lesson to help guide your responses. Please note, that this information may not be what you decide to write about or make it into your final piece, but will give you an idea of how these details will make your story stronger.
FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE
Response
Think about one of your sequence of events. How can you show the relationship between that sequence and your main character’s conflict using a METAPHOR or SIMILE?
Practicing for the competition felt like standing at the edge of a cliff, the thrill of the jump overwhelming yet exhilarating
Think about your setting. How can you use ONOMATOPOEIA to make it come alive?
The skateboards clacked and thudded against the concrete, creating a rhythmic symphony of sound that echoed in the chilly air
Think about one of your sequences. How can you use ALLITERATION to show a connection between ideas?
Leo leaned low, launching himself into leaping tricks, his heart racing faster with each exhilarating moment
What other STYLISTIC TECHNIQUES do you plan to use in your writing to make it pop? (alliteration, onomatopoeia, idiom, italics, etc.) Why does it make sense to use these in your story?
I plan to use similes and metaphors to create vivid comparisons, allowing readers to feel Leo’s excitement and tension. The use of onomatopoeia can immerse readers in the action, making them feel like spectators at the competition
* * *
Writing a Conclusion
Fill in the text boxes below with the potential conflict resolution you are thinking about using for your narrative. Use what you have learned in this lesson to help guide your responses. Please note, this information may not be what you decide to write about or make it into your final piece, but will give you an idea of how these details will make your story stronger.
CONCLUSION ELEMENT
Response
Think about your sequence of events and conflict. How can you make sure your story concludes logically?
Leo's victory is a direct result of his preparation and internal growth, as well as showcasing his newfound confidence.
Think about your main character and conflict. Has your main character grown or shown change after the events in your story?
Yes, Leo has transformed from a self-doubting skater to one who believes in his skills and embraces competition.
What is the THEME of my story I am thinking about writing? (the message, moral, etc.)
The theme centers around overcoming self-doubt and the importance of perseverance.
How can I make sure I don’t have any loose ends so my story has a satisfying conclusion?
I’ll wrap up minor subplots, revisit key relationships, and provide a snapshot of Leo’s future plans post-competition.
can you write a narrative off this (5 paragraphs)
Response
What is your main character’s name?
Leo
What kind of nose does your character have? (hook, button, large, small, etc.)
small
Hair
Dark black, short
Eyes
Green slightly blue
Skin
Slightly tan
Body type
athletic build, bulky, 5’8”
Age
18
What does your main character do with their day? Do they have a job, go to school, hang out with friends?
He's a collage student and during time when he's not studying he likes hanging out with his friends at a skatepark or on the street
CONTEXT (Setting, POV, Narrator)
Response
Where does your story take place? (setting)
canada
When does your story take place? (setting)
Winter
What point of view is your story going to be told through? (1st or 3rd person, omniscient, limited, etc.)
1st person
Who is the narrator? Are they inside or outside of the story?
inside
Why is the story happening?
Leo is preparing for an annual winter skate competition
* * *
Organizing Events
Fill in the text boxes below with sequencing information you are thinking about using for your narrative. Use what you have learned in this lesson to help guide your responses. Please note, that this information may not be what you decide to write about or make it into your final piece, but will give you an idea of how these details will make your story stronger.
NARRATIVE ELEMENT
Response
Do you plan to write your story chronologically (in time order) or nonchronological (not in time order?
chronologically
1st sequence of events
Leo and his friends gather at the skatepark to practice for the competition
2nd sequence of events
He realizes that the competition is much closer than he expected and is not ready
3rd sequence of events
The day of the competition arrives
4th sequence of events
He wins
How can you make sure your sequence of events flows logically in your story?
I will make each event lead naturally to the next, with clear transitions
* * *
Using Dialogue
Fill in the text boxes below with potential conflict as well as dialogue between two characters you are thinking about using for your narrative. Use what you have learned in this lesson to help guide your responses. Please note, that this information may not be what you decide to write about or make it into your final piece, but will give you an idea of how these details will make your story stronger.
CONFLICT
Response
What is the struggle your main character faces in your story? (Hint: Not always a fight.)
Leo struggles with self-doubt and the pressure to perform well in the competition, especially since he feels unprepared
Dialogue is used to move the story forward while revealing the character. Think about how you can use dialogue effectively to make your story come alive. Your response may be dialogue or what the characters will reveal through dialogue.
DIALOGUE PROMPTS
Response
How can you use dialogue to show conflict or conflict resolution?
Through conversations with his friends, I can showcase Leo's anxiety and their encouragement or teasing, which might motivate or frustrate him
What is the relationship between the main character and another character? (such as the antagonist, best friend, parent, side character, etc.)
Leo’s best friend, Alex, pushes him to be his best while also providing comic relief, though sometimes their banter can be intense
Why is it important that this be shown through dialogue instead of told with description? What does it reveal about the character’s personality, relationship, conflict, context, etc.?
Dialogue adds authenticity to their friendship and showcases how they support and challenge each other, allowing readers to witness their dynamic directly
* * *
Developing Narratives
Fill in the text boxes below with the potential pacing and description you are thinking about using for your narrative. Use what you have learned in this lesson to help guide your responses. Please note, that this information may not be what you decide to write about or make it into your final piece, but will give you an idea of how these details will make your story stronger.
PACING and DESCRIPTION
Response
Is your story fast-paced, slow-paced, or a combination?
It is a combination
How can you speed up a sequence in your story to show action? What do you need to include to show a faster pace?
I can use short, punchy sentences and action verbs during skate tricks and the competition to create urgency
How can you slow down a sequence in your story? What do you need to include to show a slower pace?
I can use longer, descriptive sentences to reflect Leo’s thoughts or the tense moments before the competition
How will your pacing affect your main character’s conflict?
Faster pacing during practice can heighten Leo’s anxiety, while slower pacing before the competition can build suspense
How will your description affect your main character’s conflict?
Vivid descriptions of the skatepark and winter setting can enhance Leo’s feelings of isolation or excitement, mirroring his internal struggle
How will your pacing and description help the narrator reflect on the sequence of events in your story?
Pacing allows for moments of introspection where Leo can process the outcome of his actions, while description grounds the reader in his emotional state
* * *
Transitions
Fill in the text boxes below with potential transition language you are thinking about using for your narrative. Use what you have learned in this lesson to help guide your responses. Please note, that this information may not be what you decide to write about or make it into your final piece, but will give you an idea of how these details will make your story stronger.
TRANSITIONS
Response
How do you plan to transition from one sequence of events to the next? What words can you think of that will help you transition between sequences based on your chosen story order (chronological or nonchronological)?
I can use phrases like “as the days passed” or “just days before the competition.”
How can you show a time shift from one setting to another?
By stating something like, “Later that evening, under the dim streetlights…”
Think about your setting. Does your main character have a relationship to it in the past as well as the present? How can you show that time frame in your story?
I can incorporate flashbacks or memories of previous competitions to show Leo's history with the skatepark, enhancing the emotional stakes
* * *
Precise Language
Fill in the text boxes below with potential precise and sensory language you are thinking about using for your narrative. Use what you have learned in this lesson to help guide your responses. Please note, that this information may not be what you decide to write about or make it into your final piece, but will give you an idea of how these details will make your story stronger.
PRECISE LANGUAGE
Response
Think about one or more of your sequences of events. How can you show this sequence using sensory language? What does it look, smell, taste, sound, or feel like?
The cold wind bit against Leo’s face as the sound of skateboards clashing against concrete echoed around him, accompanied by shouts and laughter from friends
Think of your main character’s eye color. How can you use precise sensory language to describe them?
His green eyes glistened like emeralds under the winter sun, filled with a mix of determination and uncertainty
Think about your main character’s hair color. How can you use precise sensory language to describe it?
His dark black hair was speckled with frost, tousled from the wind, and occasionally falling into his eyes
Think about your setting. How can you use precise sensory language to help the reader picture it the way you want them to?
The skatepark lay laden with a fresh blanket of snow, its ramps and rails glistening, promising adventure beneath a pale blue sky
Think about your main character’s wardrobe. How can you use precise sensory language to describe what they wear?
Leo donned a thick, faded hoodie, frayed at the cuffs, layered over a monochrome graphic tee, and worn jeans that were snug but flexible
* * *
Figurative Language
Fill in the text boxes below with potential figurative language you are thinking about using for your narrative. Use what you have learned in this lesson to help guide your responses. Please note, that this information may not be what you decide to write about or make it into your final piece, but will give you an idea of how these details will make your story stronger.
FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE
Response
Think about one of your sequence of events. How can you show the relationship between that sequence and your main character’s conflict using a METAPHOR or SIMILE?
Practicing for the competition felt like standing at the edge of a cliff, the thrill of the jump overwhelming yet exhilarating
Think about your setting. How can you use ONOMATOPOEIA to make it come alive?
The skateboards clacked and thudded against the concrete, creating a rhythmic symphony of sound that echoed in the chilly air
Think about one of your sequences. How can you use ALLITERATION to show a connection between ideas?
Leo leaned low, launching himself into leaping tricks, his heart racing faster with each exhilarating moment
What other STYLISTIC TECHNIQUES do you plan to use in your writing to make it pop? (alliteration, onomatopoeia, idiom, italics, etc.) Why does it make sense to use these in your story?
I plan to use similes and metaphors to create vivid comparisons, allowing readers to feel Leo’s excitement and tension. The use of onomatopoeia can immerse readers in the action, making them feel like spectators at the competition
* * *
Writing a Conclusion
Fill in the text boxes below with the potential conflict resolution you are thinking about using for your narrative. Use what you have learned in this lesson to help guide your responses. Please note, this information may not be what you decide to write about or make it into your final piece, but will give you an idea of how these details will make your story stronger.
CONCLUSION ELEMENT
Response
Think about your sequence of events and conflict. How can you make sure your story concludes logically?
Leo's victory is a direct result of his preparation and internal growth, as well as showcasing his newfound confidence.
Think about your main character and conflict. Has your main character grown or shown change after the events in your story?
Yes, Leo has transformed from a self-doubting skater to one who believes in his skills and embraces competition.
What is the THEME of my story I am thinking about writing? (the message, moral, etc.)
The theme centers around overcoming self-doubt and the importance of perseverance.
How can I make sure I don’t have any loose ends so my story has a satisfying conclusion?
I’ll wrap up minor subplots, revisit key relationships, and provide a snapshot of Leo’s future plans post-competition.
can you write a narrative off this (5 paragraphs)
Answers
GPT-4o mini
**Title: The Edge of Confidence**
As winter settled over Canada, the skatepark transformed into a playground of snow and frozen dreams. I stepped onto the slick concrete, the cold wind biting my cheeks as the sounds of skateboards clashing against the ground filled the air, accompanied by the laughter of my friends. Together, we gathered, our adrenaline pumping in anticipation of the upcoming annual winter skate competition. I glanced around at my crew, all of them already flying off ramps with effortless ease, while I stood on the sidelines, heart racing and hands slightly trembling. Despite the build-up, a nagging voice in my head screamed: "You’re not ready for this."
Days began to slip away faster than I had anticipated. Each practice session felt like climbing a mountain of doubt. The competition loomed closer with a sense of urgency that frayed my nerves. I tried to summon the courage to hit the ramp with conviction, but the self-doubt trailed behind me like a shadow. “Leo, what’s up, man? You’re riding like you’re scared of your own board!” Alex teased. He had always been my best friend, but his playful jabs felt sharper than usual. I forced a laugh, masking the turmoil building inside me. Beneath my bravado, I worried that I wouldn’t be able to compete, that I wouldn’t even place.
Finally, at last, the day of the competition arrived, the air thick with anticipation and a crisp chill. The skatepark was transformed into a bustling arena, where skaters donned colorful gear that contrasted vividly against the white backdrop of snow. As echoes of cheers and clattering boards filled my ears, I tried to drown out the anxiety swirling in my gut. I stood there, envisioning past competitions—my friends cheering, the thrill of the crowd—but all I could feel was the weight of expectation pressing down on me. The moment felt surreal, like standing at the edge of a cliff, both terrified and exhilarated.
As I prepared for my final run, I took a deep breath and felt the cool air fill my lungs, bracing myself against the growing tension. My heart raced in rhythm with the pulsing music overhead. “You’ve got this, Leo!” Alex shouted from the sidelines, and just like that, his encouragement ignited a spark within me. I launched myself into the air, flying off the ramp with a determination I didn’t know I had. Each trick flowed more naturally than I anticipated, my body moving fluidly as if my fears melted away amid the adrenaline rush. It was as if the weight of my doubts had transformed into the exhilarating wind beneath my board.
To my surprise, as I landed and heard the crowd erupt in applause, a wave of confidence washed over me. I stood there, panting but triumphant, basking in the rush of accomplishment—even more than I had won the competition, I had conquered the voice of self-doubt that threatened to hold me back. When it came time to announce the results, I heard my name echo through the park. I had done it—I had won! In that moment, I realized I was no longer just a scared kid on a board; I was a skater who had embraced his passion, ready to carve out his path in the world. The theme of perseverance settled in my mind, cementing the lesson that dreams live on the other side of fear. As I looked at my friends cheering me on, I knew this was just the beginning of a much bolder journey.
As winter settled over Canada, the skatepark transformed into a playground of snow and frozen dreams. I stepped onto the slick concrete, the cold wind biting my cheeks as the sounds of skateboards clashing against the ground filled the air, accompanied by the laughter of my friends. Together, we gathered, our adrenaline pumping in anticipation of the upcoming annual winter skate competition. I glanced around at my crew, all of them already flying off ramps with effortless ease, while I stood on the sidelines, heart racing and hands slightly trembling. Despite the build-up, a nagging voice in my head screamed: "You’re not ready for this."
Days began to slip away faster than I had anticipated. Each practice session felt like climbing a mountain of doubt. The competition loomed closer with a sense of urgency that frayed my nerves. I tried to summon the courage to hit the ramp with conviction, but the self-doubt trailed behind me like a shadow. “Leo, what’s up, man? You’re riding like you’re scared of your own board!” Alex teased. He had always been my best friend, but his playful jabs felt sharper than usual. I forced a laugh, masking the turmoil building inside me. Beneath my bravado, I worried that I wouldn’t be able to compete, that I wouldn’t even place.
Finally, at last, the day of the competition arrived, the air thick with anticipation and a crisp chill. The skatepark was transformed into a bustling arena, where skaters donned colorful gear that contrasted vividly against the white backdrop of snow. As echoes of cheers and clattering boards filled my ears, I tried to drown out the anxiety swirling in my gut. I stood there, envisioning past competitions—my friends cheering, the thrill of the crowd—but all I could feel was the weight of expectation pressing down on me. The moment felt surreal, like standing at the edge of a cliff, both terrified and exhilarated.
As I prepared for my final run, I took a deep breath and felt the cool air fill my lungs, bracing myself against the growing tension. My heart raced in rhythm with the pulsing music overhead. “You’ve got this, Leo!” Alex shouted from the sidelines, and just like that, his encouragement ignited a spark within me. I launched myself into the air, flying off the ramp with a determination I didn’t know I had. Each trick flowed more naturally than I anticipated, my body moving fluidly as if my fears melted away amid the adrenaline rush. It was as if the weight of my doubts had transformed into the exhilarating wind beneath my board.
To my surprise, as I landed and heard the crowd erupt in applause, a wave of confidence washed over me. I stood there, panting but triumphant, basking in the rush of accomplishment—even more than I had won the competition, I had conquered the voice of self-doubt that threatened to hold me back. When it came time to announce the results, I heard my name echo through the park. I had done it—I had won! In that moment, I realized I was no longer just a scared kid on a board; I was a skater who had embraced his passion, ready to carve out his path in the world. The theme of perseverance settled in my mind, cementing the lesson that dreams live on the other side of fear. As I looked at my friends cheering me on, I knew this was just the beginning of a much bolder journey.