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Boy Overboard Quick Write

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Boy Overboard Quick Write

Use the short story starter below as your launchpad. It is an original writing prompt, not an extract from the novel. You do not need the book to complete this page. Give each response a clear idea and support it with details.

A story starter

Jamal and his sister Bibi love football. Their family has to leave Afghanistan because it is no longer safe for them to stay. As they prepare to go, Jamal looks at the ball they have carried through many games. He wonders whether they will ever play together again.

Notice the details

Think about how a writer can show a character’s feelings through thoughts, actions and sensory details.

1.In the story starter, what is one thing Jamal hopes to hold on to as his family leaves? Choose the best answer.

His football and the memories connected to it
A map of a football stadium
A trophy from a recent match
A letter from his coach

2.Write two different feelings Jamal might have as he looks at the football. Give a reason for each feeling.

3.Choose a sensory detail that could make the scene vivid. Write one sentence using a sound, smell, texture or sight.

4.Which sentence shows Jamal’s feelings without naming them? Choose the best answer.

Jamal felt worried.
Jamal picked up the ball, then set it down again.
Jamal was leaving his home.
The ball was old and round.

Build a quick write

Use your ideas to shape a short scene. Try to show feelings through actions and specific details.

5.Write a first-person thought Jamal might have as he looks at the football. Begin with “I wonder…”

6.Write a short conversation between Jamal and Bibi before they leave. Include at least two lines of dialogue and show how their voices differ.

7.Choose the best opening line for a tense but thoughtful scene.

The football was old.
Jamal stared at the doorway, listening for the sound that would tell him it was time to go.
Bibi liked playing football.
They packed a bag and left.

8.Continue the story starter in 4–6 sentences. Include one action, one thought and one detail about the setting.

9.Read your scene again. Underline one sentence that shows a feeling through an action or detail. If you have not used one yet, revise a sentence so it does.