Paper 1: Writing - Narrative Writing
English Language: AQA GCSE, topic 4.1.3
Section B: Narrative Writing
A narrative piece follows a story line – it has action and tells the reader about some sort of experience that happened (either real or fake). Here are some tips for writing a narrative piece:
Use a range of language devices
- Language devices play a key role in creative writing. Using a variety of the language devices covered in the 'Key Terms' section can help you to:
- Make your writing more interesting.
- Engage the reader in your story or help them to visualise your description.
- Help you to build up the image/experience you have in your own head.
- We will recap these language devices in the 'Checklist of Techniques' section.
Identify the part of the narrative
- Remember that many different parts make up a narrative piece (e.g. an opening, a climax, an ending etc.). You may only be asked to write about a part of a narrative story.
- If the question asks you to write an opening, focus on introducing the characters and settings instead of including lots of action. You are NOT being asked to write a complete story.
Show, don't tell
- Many students make the mistake of 'telling' the reader something rather than 'showing' it to the reader. Showing, rather than telling, makes narrative writing far more impactful.
Show, don't tell - example
- Here is a writer 'telling' the reader about an alcoholic:
- Lucy was desperately searching for more wine. Her withdrawal symptoms were driving her crazy.
- The description is grammatically correct, but dull.
- Here is a writer 'showing' the reader an alcoholic:
- Her head was rattling; mirroring her quaking limbs. Her eyes darted to and fro as the sweat trickled down her forehead. Her tongue craved a trickle of liquid salvation.
- This description creates a vivid picture in the reader's mind.
Create the right tone
- The tone of your writing is very important. The tone is the writer's feelings towards what they are describing.
- To create the right tone:
- Choose words carefully - using positive adjectives will help to create a light-hearted feel. Using negative/aggressive adjectives will help to create a foreboding atmosphere.
- Use varied sentences - using short, simple sentences will help to create suspense and quicken the pace. Using long, complex sentences will slow the pace and create a relaxed feel.
Test yourself on Paper 1: Writing - Narrative Writing
You are describing a character's boredom during a long journey as part of a narrative piece. What kind of sentences should you use to create the right tone and mood?
You are asked to write an opening for a fairy tale story about childhood sweethearts. What should you focus on most?
What techniques should you use to enhance your narrative writing in your exam?