Lesson Name & Number
Lesson 3: Beginning a Narrative
Key Concepts:
What are three techniques writers use to engage readers?
- Point of View: The perspective from which the story is told, influencing how readers perceive characters and events.
- Description/Sensory Language: Using vivid details that appeal to the senses to create imagery and immerse readers in the setting and experiences of the characters.
- Dialogue: The written conversation between characters that reveals their thoughts, emotions, and motivations while advancing the plot.
Narrative Technique:
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Point of View:
- What it tells about a narrator or character: It reveals the character's inner thoughts and feelings, as well as how limited or broad the information is that the reader receives about the story.
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Description/Sensory Language:
- What it tells about a narrator or character: It helps illustrate the environment and emotional states, providing context and depth to the narrative.
-
Dialogue:
- What it tells about a narrator or character: It showcases personality and relationships, adding realism and helping to develop the storyline.
- point of view is when the narrator telling the story is also a character in the story.
Answer: first-person point of view
What is the difference between third-person limited point of view and third-person omniscient point of view?
- Third-person limited point of view: The narrator knows only the thoughts and feelings of one character.
- Third-person omniscient point of view: The narrator knows the thoughts and feelings of all characters in the story.
Practice:
- Open the Narrative Writing Project and make a copy you can type in.
- Read the article “How to Use AI to Enhance Your Storytelling Process” by Matt Ellis.
- Read all instructions carefully.
- Complete Section 1- Main Ideas (Slides 3-6).
Lesson 4: Structure
Key Concepts:
A ______________ is a category of writing or other creative work that can be identified by its structure, content, and style.
Answer: genre
What are some examples of fiction subgenres?
- Science Fiction
- Fantasy
- Mystery
- Historical Fiction
- Romance
What three narrative elements do all subgenres of fiction share?
- Character
- Setting
- Plot
A ______________ is an interruption in a narrative that gives readers information about something that happened at an earlier time.
Answer: flashback
How could a writer use a flashback to create tension in a narrative?
A writer could introduce a flashback to reveal crucial backstory or secrets that affect the current situation, creating suspense and emotional stakes for the characters involved.
Practice:
- Open up the Narrative Writing Project that you started in the last lesson.
- Complete Section 2: Setting & Point of View (Slides 7-9).
Lesson 5: Plot in a Narrative
Key Concepts:
_______________ refers to the main events or action in a narrative.
Answer: Plot
In a ______________ plot, events move in time order or in a straight line. In a ______________ plot, events do NOT move in time order or in a straight line.
Answer: chronological; non-linear
What do authors use to indicate a change in time or setting or a progression in the plot of a story?
Authors use transitional phrases, chapter breaks, or formatting changes (like italics) to indicate changes in time or setting.
If an author chooses to use multiple plot lines, the plot lines should be _____________ _______________.
Answer: intricately woven
Using the diagram below, label the elements of plot. Watch this short video if you need a refresher.
(Elements of Plot Diagram: Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, Resolution)
Practice:
- Open up the Narrative Writing Project that you started in the previous lessons.
- Complete Section 3: Plot (Slides 10-14).
Lesson 6: Character
Key Concepts:
What is characterization?
Characterization is the method used by a writer to develop characters, revealing their traits and personalities through actions, dialogues, and reactions.
What are two techniques a writer can use to describe an interesting character?
- Direct Characterization: Tell readers explicitly about the character’s traits.
- Indirect Characterization: Show the character’s traits through their actions, dialogue, and interactions with other characters.
_______________ breaks up the narration and can add depth to characters. Some of the things a writer can convey through dialogue are:
Answer: Dialogue
- Character personalities and thoughts
- Relationships between characters
- Tension or conflict in the story
Dialogue should serve a ______________. Unnecessary dialogue can bog down a story.
Answer: purpose
Practice:
- Open up the Narrative Writing Project that you started in the previous lessons.
- Complete Section 4: Characterization (Slides 15-17).
Lesson 7: Language
Key Concepts:
What is precise language?
Precise language refers to specific and clear wording that conveys an exact meaning, making the writing more vivid and impactful.
What are telling details?
Telling details are specific descriptions that provide insight into characters, settings, or actions, enhancing the reader's understanding and connection to the narrative.
What are some techniques narrative writers use to choose sensory language that will enhance their descriptions of experiences, events, setting, and characters?
- Imagery: Use vivid and evocative descriptions to paint a picture in the reader’s mind.
- Emotional Language: Select words that evoke feelings and enhance the mood of the narrative.
- Concrete Details: Utilize specific, tangible details rather than abstract concepts to help readers visualize.
Figurative Language Term | Definition
--------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------
Allusion | A reference to a well-known person, place, event, or work of art.
Hyperbole | An exaggerated statement not meant to be taken literally.
Metaphor | A comparison between two unlike things without using "like" or "as."
Personification | Giving human traits to non-human entities.
Simile | A comparison between two unlike things using "like" or "as."
Practice:
- Open up the Narrative Writing Project that you started in the previous lessons.
- Complete Section 5: Dialogue (Slides 18-20).
Lesson 8: Concluding a Narrative
Key Concepts:
What is the major problem faced by the main character in a story?
The major problem is the central conflict that drives the narrative, challenging the protagonist and prompting character development.
In an _____________ conflict, the main character is in conflict with an outside force, such as nature or another person.
Answer: external
In an _____________ conflict, the main character struggles with a decision within themselves, such as doing the right thing.
Answer: internal
The _____________ in a story forces the main character to deal with the conflict.
Answer: climax
A _____________ is the conclusion of a story’s plot in which questions are answered and the central conflict is resolved.
Answer: denouement
A _____________ refers to a character’s or narrator’s thoughtful examination of experiences and events.
Answer: reflection
What are the characteristics of a well-written conclusion?
- Wraps up the narrative in a satisfying manner.
- Addresses the central conflict.
- Reflects on the theme or message of the story.
What are three things a well-written conclusion SHOULD do?
- Resolve the main conflicts.
- Provide insight into the character’s growth or change.
- Leave the reader with something to think about.
What are two things a well-written conclusion should NOT do?
- Introduce new characters or plot points.
- Leave significant questions unanswered concerning the main conflicts.
What should the closing lines of the story provide to the reader?
The closing lines should evoke an emotional response or provoke thought, often tying back to the story's central themes.
Practice:
- Open up the Narrative Writing Project that you started in the previous lessons.
- Complete Section 6: Conclusion & Theme (Slides 21-25).