Writing a Narrative: Part 3 Orientation | EasyTeaching

Summary

This video script focuses on the importance of writing the orientation in a narrative. It outlines how to introduce the setting, characters, and hints of the plot to engage the reader. Using a story about two friends, Jenny and Scott, building a treehouse, the video emphasizes planning the narrative’s foundation. The orientation sets the scene with vivid descriptions, showcasing the characters’ personalities and their environment. It encourages using words, phrases, and actions that help bring the story to life. The script ultimately highlights the importance of creating a solid and engaging opening to a story.

Takeaways

• 😀 The basic structure of a narrative includes the orientation, problem, and solution.
• 😀 The orientation is crucial as it sets the stage by introducing the 'who', 'where', and 'when' of the story.
• 😀 A good writer should plan their narrative before writing to organize key ideas and elements.
• 😀 The planning phase often involves jotting down key phrases or notes instead of complete sentences.
• 😀 The story example focuses on two friends, Jenny and Scott, building a treehouse.
• 😀 It's important to think about the problem and solution ahead of time while planning the orientation.
• 😀 An exciting problem for the story could be a storm trapping the friends in the treehouse.
• 😀 Solutions could include either waiting for the storm to pass or attempting to climb down the tree safely.
• 😀 The orientation introduces key details about the setting, such as the treehouse, the park, and the evening time.
• 😀 Descriptive language, like verbs and noun groups, enhances the reader's experience by making the setting more vivid.
• 😀 Using direct speech reveals character personalities, such as Jenny being competitive and Scott being cautious.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of the video?

The primary focus of the video is on writing the orientation section of a narrative, which includes introducing the setting, time, and characters.

Why is the orientation important in a narrative?

The orientation is important because it sets the stage for the story by introducing key elements like the 'where,' 'when,' and 'who.' It helps the reader understand the context before the problem and solution unfold.

How does the speaker recommend planning the narrative before writing?

The speaker recommends using a planning sheet to jot down ideas in bullet points or phrases rather than full sentences. This approach helps to brainstorm key story elements like setting, characters, and potential conflicts.

What specific ideas does the speaker suggest for the problem and solution in the story?

The speaker suggests that an exciting problem for the story could be a big storm trapping the friends in the treehouse. Possible solutions include waiting for the storm to pass in the treehouse or climbing down and returning to the house safely.

How does the speaker plan to introduce the characters in the orientation?

The characters, Jenny and Scott, are introduced by name, with Jenny being described as competitive and Scott as anxious. Their personalities are further revealed through direct speech and actions.

What is the setting of the story in the orientation?

The setting of the story is a park behind one of the friend's houses, with a tall oak tree that has a treehouse. The time is late afternoon, which allows for darkness to set in later in the story.

Why does the speaker use direct speech in the orientation?

Direct speech is used to convey the characters' personalities. For example, Jenny's competitive nature and Scott's anxiety about finishing the treehouse are demonstrated through their dialogue.

What writing techniques does the speaker emphasize in the orientation?

The speaker emphasizes using descriptive verbs, noun groups, and pronouns to create vivid imagery and cohesion. These techniques help bring the setting and characters to life.

How does the speaker suggest balancing description in the orientation?

The speaker suggests including enough description to make the setting and characters vivid but warns against overdoing it. While detail is important, the orientation should not be bogged down with excessive description.

What does the speaker intend to do after completing the orientation?

After completing the orientation, the speaker plans to continue the narrative by focusing on the problem section in the next video, while keeping the planning sheet handy for reference.