Writing a Narrative
After identifying your focus and gathering details about it, you are ready to write your narrative. Remember that a narrative is more than a chronological list of events. It is a true-life story with characters and conflict, so you need to build it like a story. The activities on this page will help.
Writing the Narrative Beginning
The beginning of your narrative has a number of jobs:
- Catch the reader's attention.
- Introduce the main character (person of focus).
- Describe the setting (time and place).
- Create conflict.
Write the beginning.
Experiment with strategies for capturing the reader's interest. Use the examples below for inspiration. Then develop a beginning that introduces the main character, describes the setting, and sets up the conflict. Make a copy of this Google doc or download a Word template.
- Start in the middle of the action.
Flush with determination, I stepped up to the podium. I had a strong speech. I had a strong message. I was ready to fight for equal rights. So how did I know it was all doomed?
- Use interesting dialogue.
"There goes Drama Jess again. Making something out of nothing." Girls with an opinion get that a lot in high school.
- Pose a fascinating question.
What does justice mean to you?
- Set up the conflict.
I’m a sports fanatic. I’m also a girl. I thought by now my gender wouldn't be an issue, but last school year showed it still is.