Literary 3x3 The Literary 3x3 is a simple and ultra brief writing activity to prompt thinking outside the plot The task: summarize the novel/story you have read without using specific names or events The catch: create this summary using only 3 lines of 3 words each.

Literary 3x3 The 3x3 exercise forces you to think outside the “main character does this…then this…the end” type of formula. Try to create the most insightful 3x3’s Use the words generated to prompt further writing The RULES are on the next slide…

Rules 3x3 will use: 3x3 may use: 3x3 will not use: Complete sentences Effective word order Strong words, especially verbs and adjectives Abstract nouns Contractions using “is” Proper nouns/names Repeated words “to be” verbs Pronouns Cliches a, an, the

“Be” verbs to be am, is, are was, were being been be were

Literary 3X3 Remember you must be able to explain your thinking behind your 3X3 Connect your 3X3 to the text

Literary 3x3 examples The fun comes out in the discussion: consider these examples of “3x3”s for these popular Disney movies – can you guess what they are? A. B. C. Arrogance transforms handsomeness Mistake creates captivity Inner beauty conquers Curiosity seeks freedom Silence creates confusion Love breaks spells Innocence craves recognition Guilt prompts desertion Duty calls home

The Lion King Click to Return to 3X3s

The Little mermaid Click to Return to 3X3s

Beauty and the beast Click to Return to 3X3s

Literary 3x3 Try it! Pick a familiar book or movie (let us know which!) and write your own 3x3 Let’s share! Remember this exercise because we will be making 3x3’s with many novels, short stories, etc.