Writing a Personal Narrative
Once you finish prewriting, you are ready to tell your story in writing. These activities will help you hook the reader's interest at the beginning, build interest through a sequence of events, and lead to a strong ending for your personal narrative. You'll also read another student's essay to see how all of the parts came together.
Writing the Beginning Paragraph
Write a lead.
Read each lead-writing strategy. Then write an example of your own. Make a copy of this Google doc or download a Word template.
The first sentence in your narrative should grab the reader’s attention. It is called a lead. The following strategies will help you write an effective lead.
- Start in the middle of the action:
I thought I was ready when I arrived at our school’s auditorium.
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- Start with dialogue:
“Just wait a little longer,” said my grandpa.
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- Start with an interesting fact or statement:
When Manny came to my school, I didn’t expect to become best friends.
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Write your beginning paragraph.
Write your lead and give more details to introduce your experience. Make a copy of this Google doc or download a Word template.
Lead:
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Introductory Details:
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