Narrative writing is an essential skill that entails telling stories with a clear structure, engaging characters, and a compelling plot. To help writers enhance their narrative techniques, a “Bump It Up Wall” can be an effective tool. It displays exemplary works at varying levels of proficiency, allowing writers to compare their work and aspire to higher levels of achievement.
Examples at different levels on a “Bump It Up Wall” might include:
Level 1: Beginning Narrative
A beginning narrative might read like this:
“I saw a dog. It was big and brown. I was happy.”
This level shows a fundamental attempt at storytelling but lacks details and elements that bring the story to life. There’s no clear setting, character development, or plot.
Level 2: Developing Narrative
A developing narrative might add more details to the same story:
“One sunny afternoon, I met a friendly dog in the park. It was large with shiny brown fur. Playing fetch made me feel joyful.”
At this stage, more descriptive language is used. The setting is introduced, and emotions are more explicitly conveyed, but the plot may still be simplistic.
Level 3: Competent Narrative
A competent narrative starts molding the simple tale into something richer:
“As I strolled through the vibrant park on a warm sunny afternoon, I encountered a majestic brown dog whose fur glistened in the sunlight. An instant friendship blossomed as we played fetch beneath the old oak tree, an experience that filled me with unexpected happiness.”
Now, there’s significant improvement in setting the scene with descriptive language and sensory details. The story engages readers by describing both the character’s actions and feelings.
Level 4: Proficient Narrative
At this stage, narratives are more dynamic and show a better understanding of story structure:
“My adventure at Greenwood Park will always linger in my memory; it was here that my path crossed with Duke, a gentle giant of a dog with glistening brown fur that shone like copper under the afternoon sun. Our game of fetch by the oak tree sparked not just joy but an enduring companionship that taught me about loyalty and fun in life’s simplest moments.”
Here we see effective use of varied sentence structures. Moreover, there’s development in character relationship and plot as readers are treated to a deeper emotional journey.
Level 5: Advanced Narrative
Advanced narratives demonstrate mastery of writing techniques:
“The serendipitous encounter at Greenwood Park during an ordinary stroll transformed into an extraordinary tableau of friendship when Duke—a canine embodiment of nobility with his burnished copper fur—entered my life. The golden sunlight cast dappled shadows upon our spirited game of fetch beneath the sprawling canopy of the regal oak tree. That day transcended mere play; it sowed seeds of camaraderie that blossomed into a profound parable reflecting life’s intrinsic joys.”
Advanced narratives include richly painted scenes with nuanced emotional layers and underlying themes; they draw readers fully into an immersive experience.
Observing these examples side by side on a “Bump It Up Wall” allows writers to see practical ways to enhance their storytelling—from basic plots to intricate narratives with depth and emotion—fueling their creative journey towards better writing.
