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.
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
Loading...
Starter quiz
Download starter quiz
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
Download exit quiz
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
Download additional material
We're sorry, but preview is not currently available. Download to see additional material.