In this portfolio, you will write your own invented narrative. You will start by developing the elements of your story—characters, setting, plot (which will be built on a conflict of some kind), and theme—in a writing plan. You will learn how to use certain verbs to create the effect you want for your reader. You will revise your writing and edit it to make sure its grammar, punctuation, and spelling are correct; then you will use technology to produce a final product. Finally, you will assess your narrative and decide how well it lives up to your expectations.
As you begin your work, consider the story you want to tell. Recall special stories from your childhood—stories that allowed you to lose yourself for a while as you read them. What qualities did those narratives have that made them so fascinating? How can the stories you have read and admired help you write your own unique narrative?
Make it sound like a freshman
I. Writing Plan
A. Characters
1. Main character: Lily, a young and adventurous teenager who loves exploring abandoned places
2. Supporting character: Jake, Lily's best friend who is cautious and skeptical about her exploring habits
3. Antagonist: The mysterious figure that haunts the abandoned mansion Lily decides to investigate
B. Setting
1. The story is set in a small town with a long-abandoned mansion rumored to be haunted
2. The mansion is overgrown with vines and surrounded by a dark forest
3. The town is filled with curious locals who warn against entering the mansion
C. Plot
1. Lily convinces Jake to join her in exploring the abandoned mansion despite his protests
2. As they journey deeper into the mansion, strange things begin to happen
3. The mysterious figure appears and threatens Lily and Jake, leading to a climactic confrontation
D. Theme
1. The theme of the narrative will center around curiosity and the consequences of exploring the unknown
2. It will also explore the power of friendship in facing challenges and overcoming obstacles
II. Verbs for Creating Tone
1. Describing: shimmered, loomed, creaked
2. Creating suspense: whispered, slithered, glared
3. Evoking fear: trembled, stalked, shrieked
III. Revising and Editing
- I will revise my narrative to ensure that the plot is engaging and the characters are fully developed
- I will edit for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors to enhance the readability of my story
IV. Using Technology
- I will use word processing software to type up my narrative and make any final edits
- I will use formatting tools to create a visually appealing final product
V. Self-Assessment
- I will assess my narrative based on the effectiveness of the plot, character development, and theme
- I will reflect on how well my narrative meets my initial expectations and how I can improve in future writing endeavors.
make it into a story
Once upon a time in the small town of Willow Creek, there lived a young and adventurous teenager named Lily. Lily was known for her love of exploring abandoned places, despite the warnings of the locals who believed they were filled with danger. Her best friend, Jake, was always cautious and skeptical of Lily's adventurous spirit, but he couldn't resist joining her on one fateful exploration.
One day, Lily heard rumors of a long-abandoned mansion hidden deep within the dark forest on the outskirts of town. The mansion was said to be haunted by a mysterious figure that scared away anyone who dared to enter. Intrigued by the mystery, Lily convinced Jake to accompany her on a journey to uncover the truth behind the haunted mansion.
As they approached the mansion, it loomed before them, its once grand facade now covered in vines and shadows. Despite Jake's unease, Lily pushed forward, determined to uncover the secrets within. As they stepped inside, the air was thick with the scent of decay, and the floorboards creaked beneath their feet.
Suddenly, a chill ran down Lily's spine as a whisper echoed through the empty halls. Jake's grip tightened on her hand as they ventured deeper into the mansion, their hearts pounding with every step. Shadows slithered across the walls, and the temperature dropped as if someone—or something—was watching them.
Just as they reached the grand staircase, a figure emerged from the darkness, its eyes glaring with malice. Lily and Jake stood frozen in fear, but as the figure advanced, Lily remembered the power of friendship. With a shaky voice, she called out to Jake, and together they confronted the mysterious figure.
In a climactic showdown, the figure's true identity was revealed, uncovering a tale of betrayal and loss that had haunted the mansion for years. Through courage, curiosity, and the strength of their friendship, Lily and Jake were able to bring peace to the restless spirit and uncover the truth that lay hidden within the abandoned mansion.
As they emerged from the mansion, the sun shone brightly overhead, and the town of Willow Creek buzzed with the news of their daring adventure. Lily and Jake knew that their bond had grown stronger through their shared exploration, and they were ready to face whatever mysteries lay ahead, together.
And so, the story of Lily and Jake's adventure in the haunted mansion became a legend in Willow Creek, inspiring future generations to embrace curiosity, friendship, and the thrill of the unknown.