Novel structure, Language of Narration Date: Objectives Understand how to discuss the structure of novels using the following key words: Plot, narration, setting, characters, dialogue, timeframe and conflict. Understand that the same structure can and will be used to write Leaving Cert standard essays. Ensure everyone has begun their novels and returned their verification form.

Warm-up: write what you see. Point, elaborate, infer.

The structure of a story is as follows: Plot Method of narration Setting Characters Conflict/ climax Timeframe Dialogue

Plot – noting this down The plot encompasses all the events of a story and the sequence in which they occur. It should have: Introduction: setting, characters and conflict are introduced. Complication: events occur as result of the conflict. Climax: the highest point of the conflict. Conclusion: The resolution of the conflict. . Question to discuss: what is the difference between a summary and report do you think?

Plot – success depends on: Is the story interesting? It is worth telling? Is it told well?

Method of narration – question – raise hands There are many forms of narration, many types of voices, perspectives or views that can be used to tell a story. Can you name some? Raise your hands.

Method of narration – note it down. Who tells the story and how we see the world of the novel is important and worth discussing. First-person (I) Second person (you) (Choose your own adventure books) Third person (he) Omniscient (narrator know everything) Flashbacks, letters, diaries, and strangers too.

Setting - note The manners, customs and ways of life described in the story are all part of the setting. We must think about the geographical setting, time setting and social setting of a story. Question to discuss: how has being alive in 2017 Drogheda shaped you do you think?

Characters – note Characters have to be realistic and convincing. This is achieved through effective dialogue and description. Question to discuss: The most important thing is to have an image of the characters in your head. Easiest way to do this is to cast actors to play the roles. Name a fictional character and WHO would you cast? (Actors, friends, teachers, acquaintances) (Think about your novel)

Dialogue In order to be convincing, dialogue must be authentic and reveal things THE READER did not know. 6. Timeframe Does the action take place over days, weeks, months or years? Does this influence the characters?

Conflict /climax/ resolution Conflict is the most essential ingredient of a good story. It will give rise to tension and suspense. How the writer shows this conflict begin, play out and end is the heart of a novel. . Question to discuss: What conflicts do you remember from Junior Cert novels and plays? Can you name the characters and what happened? Give examples of inner conflicts and external conflicts from movies, t.v. or real life.

Cooldown: What do you see?