Narrative Arc Analysis Worksheet

"The Last Letter" — Year 10 English

Name:

Date:

📖 Part 1: Identifying the Narrative Arc

The narrative arc is the shape of a story. It has five stages: Exposition → Rising Action → Climax → Falling Action → Resolution.

💡 Tip: If you find it helpful, highlight or underline key moments in the story before answering.

1. What is the exposition of "The Last Letter"? Briefly describe the setting, main character(s), and situation at the start of the story.

2. Identify two events from the rising action. These are moments that build tension before the climax.

Event 1:

Event 2:

3. What is the climax of the story? Describe the moment of highest tension or the turning point.

4. Which of the following best describes the resolution of "The Last Letter"? Circle your answer.

The main character resolves their conflict and feels at peace.

The conflict remains unresolved, leaving the reader uncertain.

A new conflict is introduced, replacing the original problem.

The main character makes a choice that leads to a surprise outcome.

5. How does the author build tension during the rising action? Tick all techniques you noticed in the story.

Short, sharp sentences to speed up the pace

Unanswered questions that make the reader curious

Vivid descriptions of the character's emotions

Dialogue that reveals conflict between characters

Foreshadowing — hints about what might happen next

🔍 Part 2: Analysis and Creative Writing

💡 "Show, don't tell" means using actions, senses, and details instead of simply stating feelings. For example: Tell: "She was nervous." → Show: "Her hands wouldn't stop shaking."

6. Choose one moment from the story where you think the author uses "show, don't tell" effectively. Write the quote below and explain what it shows the reader.

Quote from the story: "_____________________________________________"

What this shows the reader:

7. Creative Writing — Alternative Ending: Rewrite the resolution of "The Last Letter" so that the main character makes a different choice. Use "show, don't tell" to reveal how they feel. Aim for 8–12 sentences.

8. Extension / Bonus: If you could add a new scene to the rising action of this story, what would happen? Briefly describe your scene idea and explain how it would increase tension for the reader.

🌟 Differentiation Support Notes

This section is for students who would like extra support. Choose what works best for you — there is no wrong way to show your thinking.

📘 For students who find reading tricky (including dyslexia support):
You may use a printed copy of the story with larger font or coloured overlay. It is fine to write in bullet points instead of full sentences. You can also draw a simple diagram of the narrative arc and label it with words or phrases from the story.

🎧 For students with audio processing differences:
Written instructions on this sheet match what your teacher said aloud. If anything is unclear, re-read the question slowly or ask your teacher for a written clarification. You do not need to rely on verbal instructions alone.

⚡ For students who work better with movement or shorter tasks (including ADHD support):
Try completing one question at a time and taking a short break between sections. You can answer questions in any order — start with the one that feels easiest. For the creative writing task, bullet points or a quick plan are a great first step before writing full sentences.

🚀 Finished early? Try this: Write a short diary entry from the perspective of a minor character in the story. What did they witness? How did they feel? Use "show, don't tell."