If you were to write a narrative in which you were showing your audience how something happened, which type of structure or structures would you use? Explain your reasoning.
When writing a narrative to show the audience how something happened, several types of structures could be effectively employed. Here are three common narrative structures that can be used to depict the sequence of events:
1. Chronological structure: This structure presents events in the order they occurred, as a straightforward timeline. It works well when you want to show the step-by-step progression of the event and maintain a clear sense of cause and effect. Start with the initial situation and then follow the events as they unfold in a logical sequence.
2. Cause and effect structure: This structure highlights the causal relationship between events, emphasizing how each action leads to a specific consequence. Begin with the initial cause or the situation that triggers the events and then describe the chain of effects that follow. It is helpful when you want to explore the reasons behind each action and delve into the consequences they generate.
3. Flashback structure: This structure involves starting the narrative in the midst of the action or at a crucial point, and then jumping back in time to present events that lead up to that point. Flashbacks can provide context, build anticipation, and add depth to the story. They are useful when you want to create intrigue or gradually reveal the circumstances that led to a particular event.
The choice of narrative structure depends on the specific goals of your story. Consider the desired effect on the audience, the level of suspense or revelation you want to maintain, and the overall flow of the plot. Experimenting with these structures can bring variety to your storytelling and engage your readers or listeners in different ways.