Standard: 11-12.W.3c – Use a variety of techniques to sequence events so that they build on one another to create a coherent whole and build toward a particular tone and outcome (e.g., a sense of mystery, suspense, growth, or resolution).
Grade level: Grade 11-12
Subject: English Language Arts
Domain: Writing
Teacher Overview
This standard focuses on teaching students how to effectively sequence events in their writing to create a cohesive and engaging narrative. Mastery of this skill allows students to develop stories that build toward specific tones and outcomes, enhancing their overall writing proficiency. Students should be comfortable with basic narrative structures and techniques such as foreshadowing, flashbacks, and pacing. They should also have experience writing simple narratives.
Upon mastering this standard, students will be able to create more sophisticated and engaging narratives, manipulating time and events to achieve specific tones and outcomes in their writing.
Common Misconception 1
Some students may think that events must always be presented in chronological order. This is incorrect because non-linear storytelling can add depth and interest to a narrative.
Intervention 1
To address this misconception, engage students in activities that involve writing events out of sequence and then rearranging them to form a coherent narrative. Use examples from literature and film to illustrate effective non-linear storytelling.
Common Misconception 2
Another common misconception is that using multiple narrative techniques will make their writing confusing. In reality, when used thoughtfully, these techniques can enhance the clarity and depth of a narrative.
Intervention 2
Demonstrate how combining techniques can improve a story by analyzing examples from literature and film. Encourage students to experiment with different techniques in their own writing and provide feedback on their effectiveness.
Prerequisite Knowledge
Students should have a basic understanding of narrative structure, including the concepts of beginning, middle, and end. They should also be familiar with different types of narrative techniques such as foreshadowing, flashbacks, and pacing.
Subsequent Knowledge
After mastering this standard, students will be able to create more complex and engaging narratives. They will be able to manipulate time and events to enhance the reader’s experience and achieve specific tones and outcomes in their writing.
Instructional Activities
- Write a short story using flashbacks and foreshadowing.
- Create a storyboard for a film that builds suspense.
- Develop a plot outline for a novel with a clear tone and outcome.
- Design a narrative for a video game that uses non-linear storytelling.
- Craft a script for a play that builds toward a resolution.
