Elements of writing a good Narrative:

Make a plan for writing by creating a graphic organizer that can be used to record and organize notes to formulate and develop your ideas about each of these suggested elements:

• Moral/Lesson/Explanation of Element of Nature
• Conflict/Resolution
• Setting
• Characters
• Imaginary Elements
• Sequence of Events

Narrative Essay Characteristics

Uses first-person point of view (“I” or “we”)

• Avoid second-person (“you”)

Has a voice

• This should sound like you, if you were to, say, tell a story to the Pope

Includes a reflection

• Your story needs to have a point (a lesson learned, a fond memory, etc.)
• Your conclusion should contain this realization; your intro may allude to it

Is about a single incident or moment

• Don’t write about the whole day; write about the birthday party
• Better yet, don’t write about the party; write about 5 minutes of the party
• Narrow your focus!

Appeals to senses

• Use imagery
• It’s your job as the writer to make readers feel as though they’re there

Follows a logical sequence

• Sequence of events is crucial to your audience’s understanding and enjoyment
• Consider the best order in which to tell it

Contains storytelling elements

• Characters, setting, plot, etc.