Instruction
1. Choose a topic - Consider any of the following as entry points to your narrative:
A single early memory connected to reading or writing that your recall vividly;
Someone who taught you to read or write;
A book that inspired you in some way
Check the textbook, NFGW, p.85 for more ideas.
Create a list of possibilities using the prompts above. Choose the ones you think are most interesting or ask a friend which ones they like.
3. Model your literacy narrative on one of the essays we studied in class OR look in the back of the textbook, Chap.64, beginning on page 790 for more examples to inspire you.
4.Brainstorm or free write on the subject. Consider the following as prompts: setting – WHERE you were; who else was with you? WHO helped you? –hindered you?
Get ready to create your outline by considering the following questions:
Who is your audience? - Your teacher; your peers; yourself
What is your stance? - Will your narrative be serious or light-hearted? Neutral? Critical? Are you angry at someone for how you feel about writing? Are you grateful to someone? You may wish to portray these attitudes in your narrative by your tone of voice.
Write the words “what happened?” on a piece of paper or on your screen and then begin answering the question. You might want to start with a simple outline designating beginning, middle, and end.
Write your rough draft and read it over. Give it to a friend to read. Ask for their comments. Don’t be embarrassed. They will be doing this in their classes as well! Ask yourself if there is a thesis statement – a statement that portrays the main issue you are addressing. Does the rest of the narrative feel connected to that thesis and add focus to the story?
Print out one hard copy to bring to class for the peer edit workshop. Be sure to print it out ahead of time and proofread it. You may find corrections that you need to make and print it out again. Submit one electronic copy to the portal on Canvas.