Lesson Plan: Narrative Writing
Subject: English
Grade Level: 6
Duration: 30 minutes
Objective
Students will be able to understand the elements of narrative writing and apply these elements to create their own short narrative.
Materials Needed
- Whiteboard and markers
- Handout with narrative writing template
- Paper and writing utensils
- Sample narrative excerpts
Lesson Outline
I. Introduction to Narrative Writing (5 minutes)
- Define Narrative Writing: Explain that narrative writing tells a story and includes various elements such as characters, setting, plot, conflict, and resolution.
- Discuss Elements: Briefly review the elements of narrative writing:
- Characters: Who is in the story?
- Setting: Where and when does the story take place?
- Plot: What happens in the story?
- Conflict: What problem needs to be solved?
- Resolution: How is the conflict resolved?
II. Reading and Analyzing a Sample Narrative (10 minutes)
- Group Activity: Read a short narrative excerpt as a class. Possible excerpts could be taken from age-appropriate literature.
- Discussion: After reading, ask students the following questions:
- Who are the main characters?
- Where and when does the story take place?
- What is the main conflict?
- How is the conflict resolved?
- Encourage students to provide specific examples from the text.
III. Guided Practice (5 minutes)
- Introduce the Narrative Writing Template: Hand out the narrative writing template that includes structured prompts for each narrative element.
- Instruct Students: Ask students to fill out their templates with ideas for characters, setting, plot, conflict, and resolution for a story they would like to write.
IV. Individual Writing Activity (10 minutes)
- Narrative Writing: Allow students to begin writing their own short narrative based on the template they completed. Emphasize the importance of including all elements of a narrative.
- Encourage Creativity: Motivate students to think creatively about their stories and to use descriptive language.
Conclusion (5 minutes)
- Share and Reflect: Invite a few students to share what they have written or the ideas they have for their stories.
- Summarize Key Points: Recap the elements of narrative writing and remind students that a good narrative engages readers with interesting characters and a well-developed plot.
Assessment
Students’ narratives will be collected at the end of the lesson for evaluation based on:
- Inclusion of narrative elements
- Creativity and originality
- Clarity and organization of writing
Homework
Ask students to complete their narratives at home and be prepared to share them in the next class.
Additional Notes
- Be prepared to assist students who may struggle with writing or understanding the narrative elements.
- Consider pairing students for peer feedback during the writing activity to foster collaboration.
This lesson plan is designed to engage sixth-grade students in narrative writing by exploring its components and encouraging their creative expression.