English 12 Mr. Schellenberg Narrative Essays

What is a narrative essay? An essay that approaches a particular topic by telling a story. On a provincial exam, the essay topic becomes the theme/central idea of your story. Examples: People can create their own reality. Confidence comes from the support of others. Each generation has something valuable to offer. With independence comes increased responsibility.

Elements of a narrative What does a story require? Setting Conflict Character Plot POV As in a story, you need your theme to emerge through the interaction of these elements.

Writing a narrative Introduction Hook the reader Establish setting, conflict, character Example: Death is a painfully inevitable part of one’s life. I, unfortunately, was forced to learn this lesson at the tender age of eight when I watched my grandmother succumb to esophageal cancer. In media res (starting in the middle of the action) As I laid there, with my face on the cold pavement, all I could hear was a stranger’s voice, yet I was too disoriented to make sense of what he was trying to say; all I could remember was that split second where I saw the headlights coming straight at me.

Writing a narrative cont. Body Paragraphs Climax Turning point Point of most intense interest Rising Action Development of conflict Conflict intensifies Show don’t tell Careful selection of details Write in past tense Chronological order No flashback or premonition Dialogue NO 2nd person POV

Writing a narrative cont. Conclusion Resolution to the conflict which has been the driving force behind your story Make explicit/implicit connection to the essay topic which has become the theme of your story

Final tips Brainstorm before starting to write Use description, at certain points, to enhance the reader’s image/understanding/enjoyment of your story If necessary, use dialogue to improve authenticity Dialogue CAN be colloquial A well told narrative can be refreshing for an exam marker and earn you the coveted 5/6 essay mark; however, there is such thing as a BAD narrative! (<-- that’s an admonition!) EDIT. EDIT. EDIT.