Unit 3 Writing Task

You have read short stories that employ flashbacks or framing devices to tell stories. Now you will use your understanding of those texts to create a narrative that explores a question related to the human condition in a fresh way.

Write a fictional narrative addressing this question:

How do stressful situations often reveal the best and worst in people?

Begin by creating a fictional scenario that is dramatic and stressful enough to trigger widely different responses from characters. Then, think about how you might develop characters whose reactions will give readers insight into the issues raised by the prompt. Finally, reflect on the structure of the stories you read in this section. Use plot devices similar to the ones in those texts, such as a frame story or flashbacks, to add interest to your narrative and provide additional insight into characters and events.

💡Prompt Specific Ideas and Activities

Possible Sentence Starters:

• In a world where everything seems normal, a sudden crisis unfolds when…

• As the situation escalates, the characters react in ways that reveal their true selves; for instance, when faced with danger, [Character Name] decides to…

• In the midst of chaos, [Character Name] finds themselves grappling with their instincts, leading them to…

• The tension builds as [Character Name] reflects on a pivotal moment from their past that influences their response to the stress, recalling…

• The unexpected circumstances force [Character Name] to confront their fears, ultimately choosing to…

• In a moment of crisis, [Character Name]'s reaction surprises everyone, highlighting the complexity of human behavior as they…

• As the pressure mounts, the characters engage in heated discussions that reveal their true beliefs about human nature, particularly when…

Exemplary Response:

In a small coastal town, a powerful hurricane is approaching. The townspeople have been warned to evacuate, but not everyone has the means or desire to leave their homes. Among those who stay behind are a young couple, Sarah and John, and an elderly man, Mr. Thompson.

As the storm intensifies, Sarah becomes increasingly anxious and fearful. She tries to prepare their house as best as she can, but her worry consumes her. John, on the other hand, remains calm and collects important supplies to ride out the storm. He reassures Sarah and tries to keep her spirits up.

Meanwhile, Mr. Thompson, who lives alone in a beachfront cottage, refuses to leave. He believes he can withstand any storm, having lived through numerous hurricanes in the past. He stubbornly refuses any help or offers of shelter from his concerned neighbors.

Sarah struggles to control her fear, John works tirelessly to protect their home, and Mr. Thompson remains determined to weather the storm alone.

The storm finally passes, leaving the town battered but intact. Sarah, though shaken, realizes her strength and resilience. John's calm and preparedness are validated, and he gains a deeper appreciation for Sarah's vulnerability. Mr. Thompson, however, suffers severe damage to his cottage and is finally persuaded to accept help from his neighbors.

Non-Exemplary Response:

Once upon a time, there was a big storm. Some people were scared, some were calm. They all had different experiences. It was interesting. The end.