New
New
Year 11
Eduqas
Writing a narrative with a compelling voice
I can use a convincing voice in my narrative writing.
New
New
Year 11
Eduqas
Writing a narrative with a compelling voice
I can use a convincing voice in my narrative writing.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- We do not have to get to the resolution of a plot in a short story.
- We can manipulate time in our narrative to give it an interesting structure.
- When we manipulate time, we need to ensure we set up for the rest of the narrative to follow.
- We must maintain a consistent narrative voice throughout our work.
- Interspersing the plot with a narrator’s inner monologue can be a clever way to build tension.
Keywords
Ignominy - public shame or disgrace
Discern - to be able to see or recognise something
Bedraggled - wet, dirty, untidy
Common misconception
Plot is the most important part of a narrative.
Voice is equally important to plot when writing a narrative. Ask students: if there was a resolution to the story but no distinct voice, how would the story change? Would it be effective, enjoyable?
Ask a couple of pupils which narrative voice they are trying to create. As a class, draft some phrases that each voice would/would not say. Unpick why.
Teacher tip
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
- Depiction or discussion of upsetting content
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on
Open Government Licence version 3.0
except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).Lesson video
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Starter quiz
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6 Questions
Q1.
What does ignominy mean?
public acceptance
public apology
Q2.
What is register when thinking about writing?
the personality of a voice
the emotion of a voice
Q3.
What is a 'guffaw'?
a wild cry
an intense game
Q4.
Which of the below contributes to a sensitive voice?
'Call me clueless. Call me whatever you like.'
'I doubt you would know better.'
Q5.
What might we want to do in a short narrative to keep it interesting?
introduce as many characters as possible
give the plot a resolution
Q6.
What might we need to do in the exposition of a short narrative to ensure events develop in a believable way?
describe the weather for a long time
create a complete tone of calm
Exit quiz
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6 Questions
Q1.
Which of these might lead to someone feeling bedraggled?
having their hair and makeup done
going on a short jog
Q2.
When writing a short narrative, it is most important to …
give your story a resolution.
incorporate as many different characters as possible.
Q3.
What might be a clever way to delay the climax of your short story whilst maintaining voice?
describe the weather to add to the atmosphere
use a simile to describe the scene
Q4.
Which of these examples would represent a blunt and harsh voice?
'He’s not the most attentive, bless him.'
'He shows his love in unique ways, but I know it’s there.'
Q5.
What is true of narrative voice when writing a short story?
we need at least five voices to be shown
the narrator's voice should always be true to the writer's own
Q6.
How can we manipulate time in a text to create an interesting short story?
describe events in chronological order
intersperse the narrative with letters
Additional material
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