A Star Narrative Writing for IGCSE First Language English

Overview

• This lesson focuses on creating A Star narratives for IGCSE First Language English.
• Relevant for both IGCSE First Language English and English Language GCSE.
• Resources available for download: PowerPoint, worksheet, and review quiz.

Narrative Writing in IGCSE

• Part of coursework or Paper 2.
  • Coursework: Assignment three, writing to narrate.
  • Paper 2: Section B Composition, choice of narrative or description.
• Recommended to study both narrative and descriptive writing.

Plot Structure

Mountain Shape

• Introduction: Set the time, setting, characters, and main character's motivation.
• Inciting Incident: Catalyst that starts the action, usually presenting an obstacle.
• Rising Tension: Longest part, building tension, mystery, and suspense.
• Climax: Intense or exciting part resolving most questions.
• Conclusion: Answers remaining questions, can be brief or a cliffhanger.

Marking Criteria

Content and Structure

• Top Band: Well-defined plot, effective climax, and detailed description.
• Lower Bands: Defined plot but may lack effectiveness or detail.

Style and Accuracy

• Top Band: Consistently accurate grammar, precise vocabulary, varied sentence structures.
• Lower Bands: Frequent small errors to serious errors affecting clarity.

Common Mistakes

• Coursework: Overly complicated stories.
  • Solution: Simplify, ensure clarity by having someone summarize the story.
• Exam: Boring or obvious stories.
  • Solution: Avoid first ideas, brainstorm creative angles.

Analyzing an Exemplar Narrative: "Race to the Top"

• Structure: Identify introduction, inciting incident, rising tension, climax, resolution.
• Setting: Described consistently, includes time, weather, and atmosphere.
• Characterization: Realistic portrayal through appearance, personality, motivation.
• Dialogue: Brief, purposeful, and realistic.
• Description: Use of vivid language, show rather than tell.

Example Analysis

• Introduction: Stakes are high for the protagonist, Sammy.
• Climax: Sammy decides to help rival Benson.
• Resolution: Marie wins, Sammy helps Benson, learning it’s about participation.
• Circular Structure: Begins and ends with the same theme, showing character development.

Tips for Effective Narrative Writing

• Ensure clarity and avoid overly complex plots.
• Develop at least two well-rounded characters.
• Consistently describe settings and maintain story coherence.
• Build toward an effective climax through rising tension.
• Proofread for accuracy in spelling, punctuation, and grammar.
• Utilize tools like Grammarly for coursework, and re-read work aloud for errors in exams.

Conclusion

• Utilize resources like video lessons, quizzes, and teaching materials from the website.
• Engage with lessons and ask questions for further clarification.