Writing that is about someone’s Personal Narrative Writing that is about someone’s personal experiences written by that person
Elements of a Personal Narrative Consistent Point of View Strong Lead Character and Setting Development Clear, Focused Conflict Dialogue and Blocking Interior Monologue “Show Don’t Tell” Reflective Conclusion
Point of View Personal narratives are written in first person point of view. The narrator is a character in the story. First person pronouns are used to indicate the writer is telling the story from his/her point of view.
Strong Leads A strong lead immediately grabs the reader’s attention by being out of the ordinary and exceptionally interesting. Strong lead ideas Short, arresting sentence Astonishing or shocking statement or scenario Exciting direct quotations Flashback Inspiring and philosophical ideas ANY COMBINATION OF THE ABOVE
Character and Setting A good narrative develops character and setting. Character Description Physical appearance Personality traits Directly stated Shown through actions and words Setting Description Elaborate description of place Imagery - sights, sounds, smells, touch, taste Time
Conflict The problem around which the narrative revolves is called the conflict. A good personal narrative cleverly introduces the conflict, excitingly develops it, and meaningfully resolves the conflict in the end.
Dialogue and Blocking Dialogue is when characters in the narrative speak aloud to one another. Dialogue should develop characters by giving clues about their personalities and feelings. There are specific rules for writing dialogue. Blocking is words that physically situate or describe what the speaker is doing as he/she speaks. “Stop!” he shouted while angrily pounding his fists on the table.
Interior Monologue Interior monologue tells what the character is thinking and feeling inside his/her head. It helps the reader discover more information about the character. It is often written in italics.
Show Don’t Tell A good narrative develops the conflict and story through the use of vivid, descriptive language. He was tall. (telling - how boring!) His shadow loomed over my head, covering me in darkness. (showing - yay! ) Figures of speech such as simile, metaphor, personification, and hyperbole are great ways to “show not tell.”
Strong Conclusion A personal narrative ends with a personal revelation. A revelation is a big idea—an important or life-changing realization based on the narrative experience. This revelation is often stated directly, but can be cleverly alluded to.
Analyzing Personal Narratives In the model narratives we will read in class, locate and analyze examples of: Strong Leads Character and Setting Development Conflict Dialogue and Blocking Interior Monologue Showing Not Telling Strong Conclusions