1. Unwrapping “Just Right” Topics for Personal Narratives
Writing to a Prompt
Unwrapping “Just Right” Topics for Personal Narratives

2. Trying new things can be exciting.
Write about a time you tried something new.
Be sure to —
write about a personal experience
organize your writing
develop your ideas in detail
choose your words carefully
use correct spelling, capitalization, punctuation, grammar, and sentences
Look at the picture below.

3. Prompt: Write about a time you tried something new.
The prompt is asking me to think about times I’ve tried something for the first time.
Step 1: Reflect on what you already know about the topic by activating your schema.

4. Prompt: Write about a time you tried something new.
The prompt is asking me to write a story about a real personal experience when I tried something new.
Step 2: Determine what the prompt is asking you to do – tell a personal story.

5. Prompt: Write about a time you tried something new.
I could write about the first time I went to an Astros game or maybe the first time I tasted broccoli.
Step 3: Connect and brainstorm related personal experiences to the topic.

6. Prompt: Write about a time you tried something new.
I think I will write about the first time I played basketball with a team.
Step 4: Choose a personal story and use rich details to show the importance of the experience.

7. Prompt: Write about a time you tried something new.
I can start with a thoughtshot by telling what I think. “Oh no! I can’t believe coach is putting me in the game.”
Step 5: Consider how to grab a reader’s attention with a strong lead and end with a truism.

8. Prompt: Write about a time you tried something new.
First, I’ll start by making a timeline of the important events in the game. Then I’ll make a FIT chart to show my thoughts and feelings.
Step 6: Make a plan to help you organize your personal story into focused paragraphs.

9. Responding to a Prompt Read and Reflect Determine Task Connect1 2 3 4 5 6
Read and Reflect
Determine
Task
Connect
Experiences
Consider Audience
Select
Topic
Make
a Plan