SMALL MOMENTS: TEACHING NARRATIVE WRITING UNIT OF STUDY

“Small Moments: Teaching Narrative Writing” is a unit of study designed to help students develop their skills in writing narrative texts. The unit focuses on encouraging students to identify and explore meaningful moments from their own lives and transform them into compelling narratives.

The goal of this unit is to guide students in crafting well-structured narratives that engage readers and convey a clear message or theme. Throughout the unit, students learn various narrative writing techniques, such as creating strong characters, developing plot and conflict, using descriptive language, and incorporating dialogue.

The unit begins with brainstorming and generating ideas for small moments, which are specific and significant events from students’ personal experiences. Students are encouraged to reflect on their memories and select moments that have emotional resonance or convey a deeper meaning.

Next, students learn about the elements of narrative writing, including the introduction, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution. They explore different narrative structures and consider how to effectively sequence events to build tension and create a satisfying narrative arc.

The unit also focuses on the importance of adding sensory details and vivid descriptions to engage the reader’s senses and create a vivid mental image. Students learn to incorporate dialogue to bring their narratives to life and reveal character traits and relationships.

Throughout the unit, students engage in writing workshops, where they receive feedback from their peers and the teacher. They learn how to revise and edit their work, focusing on improving clarity, coherence, and the overall impact of their narratives.

By the end of the unit, students should have a well-developed narrative that showcases their ability to craft engaging stories. They will have honed their skills in generating ideas, organizing their writing, developing characters and plot, using descriptive language, and revising their work to create a polished final piece.

Overall, “Small Moments: Teaching Narrative Writing” provides students with the necessary tools and strategies to become proficient and confident narrative writers, allowing them to effectively communicate their experiences and perspectives through storytelling.

Teaching about small moments can greatly improve students’ writing. Small moment stories are when authors write about important events from their lives.

This unit includes ideas, graphic organizers, and templates for writing which should be included in teaching a unit on writing small moments as part of narrative writing process.

These materials can be used for K-2, as different levels of materials are included.