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Crafting Narrative Openings

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Crafting Narrative Openings

Students writing stories

📺 Part 1: Watching and Planning

1. After watching the 'Marshmallows' clip, describe the setting (where the story happens):
2. Who is the main character? Write one thing about them:
3. Draw your story setting in the box below, then write 3 describing words around it:
4. Use this story map to plan your opening. Fill in each section:

My Setting: _________________________________

My Main Character's Name: _____________________

What my character looks like: ____________________

One special thing about my character: _______________

✏️ Part 2: Writing Your Opening

5. Choose helpful words from the word banks below, then write your opening paragraph:

Setting Words: sunny, dark, mysterious, cosy, busy, quiet, colourful, ancient, magical, peaceful

Character Words: brave, curious, friendly, clever, kind, adventurous, cheerful, determined, creative, helpful

6. Use these sentence starters to help you:

For setting: "In the _______ place..." or "The _______ was..."

For character: "There lived a _______ called..." or "_______ was a _______ who loved..."

7. Write your opening paragraph here:
8. Extension Challenge: Can you add a simile (comparing using 'like' or 'as') or start with dialogue?

🌟 Part 3: Self-Assessment

9. Check your work! Tick the boxes that describe your opening:

I described the setting clearly

I introduced my main character

I used describing words (adjectives)

My sentences make sense

I used capital letters and full stops

My opening would make someone want to read more

10. What is one thing you did well in your opening?
11. What is one thing you could improve next time?

Remember our school values: Kia Kaha (be strong), Kia Maia (be courageous), Kia Manawanui (be patient), Kia Angitu (strive for success)

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