Page 85 - SpringBoard_Writing_Workshop_Grade8_Flipbook

Writing Workshop 7 (continued)
ACADEMIC VOCABULARY Characterization refers to techniques for presenting and developing a character in a narrative through the narrator’s own actions, thoughts, and words, as well as through introducing
and describing other characters.
What the Character Says or Thinks What Others Say about the Character
What the Character Does Descriptions of the Character
6 SpringBoard® Writing Workshop with Grammar Activities Grade 8
5. Underline examples of descriptive language (specific details, sensory descriptions, figurative language) in Pausch’s narrative. Look for language that makes the story easy to visualize and interesting to read. As a class, brainstorm more precise words or language you might use to enhance the narrative the class is creating. Write these on your own paper.
6. Writers often share their feelings about an experience to help the
reader understand its significance. This technique also helps the reader understand the narrator’s character. Skim through Pausch’s narrative, highlighting spots where he relates his own feelings and thoughts at the time of the experience. Identify places in the organizer where you might have the narrator describe a feeling or emotion. Put a question mark in those spots.
Drafting
7. With your classmates and your teacher, use your notes and your reading of the sample text to draft the beginning of your narrative essay. Be sure to include the following elements:
• An engaging introductory technique (such as dialogue, a reflective
statement, or a contrast)
• Context (the situation, characters, and/or conflict that is central to the
story)
Look at the first paragraphs of Pausch’s narrative, and identify these elements. Then, as a class, draft the introduction to your class-constructed essay. Copy your draft below.
8. As you develop ideas in the middle of your narrative, focus on:
• Vivid descriptions to present the setting and the events
• Organization to show shifts between events, reactions, and reflections • Direct and Indirect Dialogue to help develop key scenes and to convey
the attitude of the narrator and other speakers
9. With your class, use the chart to expand the characterization in the middle of your class narrative.
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