Unit 7 Lesson 3: Beginning a Narrative Flashcards
1.
hook
an event or situation used to capture the reader’s attention
suspense
the excitement or tension readers feel about knowing the outcome of a story
technique
a method or device writers use to create an effect
There are many ways to begin a narrative, but all engaging narratives have one thing in common:
a hook
what is the purpose of a hook
The purpose of the hook is to capture the reader’s attention and draw the reader into the story. It’s often the reader’s curiosity about what happens next in a story that compels them to keep reading.
Techniques to Engage Readers
- Make an interesting observation.
- Introduce a situation.
- Set a problem for the main character.
What might happen with this technique: Set a problem for the main character. I
Imagine a story in which a character comes home to find that his gate is open and his dog has escaped. The reader wonders where the dog went and if the dog will be found and keeps reading to learn how the problem will be solved.
What might happen with this technique: Introduce a situation.
This technique engages the reader by revealing a particular event or circumstance. For example, a writer might begin a narrative by describing a family reunion in which relatives who have been estranged for many years are coming together. This interesting situation creates tension. The reader keeps reading to see how the relationships among the relatives develop.
What might happen with this technique: Make an interesting observation
This technique was used in the narrative about Julio. The reader is curious to learn why Julio is frantically gathering emergency supplies.
description
words used to give more details about a character, setting, or plot
dialogue
words spoken between characters
imagery
descriptive words that create pictures in a reader’s mind
1.
limited
narration focused on a particular character
metaphor
a comparison between two unlike things, without using the words like or as
narrative techniques
methods and devices writers use to create an effect