| Full lesson | Create for a teacher a set of content for giving a lesson, beginning with the lesson plan. Each new block of materials must begin with an H1 heading (other subheaders must be H2, H3, etc). When you describe required pictures, write those descriptions in curly brackets, for example: {A picture of a triangle} |
| Which subject | English |
| What topic | Personal Narrative |
| What length (min) | 30 |
| What age group | Doesn't matter |
| Class size | 20 |
| What curriculum | |
| Include full script | |
| Check previous homework | |
| Ask some students to presents their homework | |
| Add a physical break | |
| Add group activities | |
| Include homework | |
| Show correct answers | |
| Prepare slide templates | |
| Number of slides | 5 |
| Create fill-in cards for students | |
| Create creative backup tasks for unexpected moments |
Personal Narrative
Appropriate for any grade level (flexible according to student age and proficiency)
English
20
30 minutes
This lesson aligns with the Common Core State Standards for Writing, specifically focusing on narrative writing.
| Step Number | Step Title | Length | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Introduction to Personal Narratives | 5 min | Briefly discuss what a personal narrative is. Share an example story to illustrate the concept. |
| 2 | Key Elements of a Narrative | 5 min | Introduce key elements: setting, characters, conflict, and resolution. Discuss these elements using the example story. |
| 3 | Distribute Printable Cards | 5 min | Hand out printable cards with personal narrative prompts for students to fill out. Explain how to complete the cards. |
| 4 | Independent Writing Activity | 10 min | Students write their personal narratives based on the prompts provided on the cards. Monitor progress and offer support as needed. |
| 5 | Collect and Randomly Check Cards | 5 min | Collect the completed cards. Randomly check a few for understanding without requiring students to present. Provide feedback if necessary. |
| 6 | Conclusion and Reflection | 5 min | Wrap up the lesson with a brief discussion on what was learned. Ask students to share one element they will remember. |
Students are to complete a full draft of their personal narrative based on the cards filled during the lesson. This draft will be reviewed in the next class, but it will not be presented in front of peers.
"Good morning, everyone! Today, we will dive into something really exciting—personal narratives! Can anyone tell me what they think a personal narrative is? [Pause for responses] Great thoughts!
A personal narrative is a story that tells about a personal experience or event in our lives. To help you understand this better, I’m going to share a short story I've written. [Read your example personal narrative out loud].
Now, as I read, I want you to listen for the feelings and experiences that connect with my story. Personal narratives allow us to express who we are and what we’ve gone through!"
"Now that you have an idea of what a personal narrative is, let’s talk about some key elements that make up a good story.
First, we have the setting—this is where and when the story takes place. Next, we have the characters—who is involved in the story? Then, there’s the conflict—what challenges or problems does the main character face? Finally, we have the resolution, which is how the story ends and how those challenges are overcome.
Let's identify these elements together using the story I just read.
Great job! Recognizing these elements will help you craft your very own personal narratives."
"Next, I have some tools to help you get started on your narratives. I’m handing out printable cards that have different prompts on them.
[Distribute cards to students]
Please look at your card. This prompt is designed to inspire your story. You can use it in any way you like! Now, take a moment to think about how you can fill it out. You don't have to write your entire story yet, just jot down some thoughts or ideas that come to you about the prompt.
If you have questions, don’t hesitate to raise your hand!"
"Now it’s time for the main part of our lesson—you'll each write your own personal narrative using the ideas from your cards.
You’ll have 10 minutes to work on this, so I want you to really let your creativity flow. Remember to include the key elements we talked about earlier—setting, characters, conflict, and resolution in your narratives.
I will be walking around the room to support you. If you get stuck or need help, just raise your hand and I’ll come over! Go ahead and start writing!"
"Alright, time is up! Please stop writing and pass your cards to the front of the row.
I will collect them and, just to make it fun, I will randomly check a few of the cards to see how you’re doing. This is just to gauge your understanding, and you don’t need to present your ideas right now—just know I’m here to help if you need more feedback.
[Collect and briefly review a few cards]
Thank you for sharing what you have! Your ideas are fantastic!"
"To wrap up our lesson, let’s have a quick discussion about what we learned today.
Can anyone share one key element of a narrative that stood out to you? [Wait for responses]
Excellent insights! Remember, personal narratives are powerful because they allow us to share our experiences and connect with others.
For your homework, I want you to expand on the ideas you started today and complete a full draft of your personal narrative. We will discuss your drafts in our next class, but don’t worry—you won’t have to present them.
Thank you for your hard work today! I can’t wait to see the amazing stories you create!"
| Question | Answer |
|-------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------|
| What is a personal narrative? | |
| Can you identify the setting from the personal narrative shared in class?| |
| Who were the characters involved in the personal narrative? | |
| What was the main conflict in the story? | |
| How was the conflict resolved in the personal narrative? | |
| What is one key element of a narrative that you learned today? | |
| Why are personal narratives considered powerful? | |
| How can you use the prompt on your card to inspire your story? | |
| What are the four key elements of a good narrative? | |
| How do you plan to expand on your ideas for homework? | |