Mrs Fricke and the Bullies

Today, we read a narrative written by Richard Wagamese, called "Mrs Fricke and the Bullies." Come and pick up a copy from me tomorrow if you were on the field trip today or download a copy off the blog. We read the narrative and discussed the features that make it a successful story. We talked about how quickly Wagamese is able to establish character, even just one paragraph in. He shows the character's traits through just a couple of details, which is what you will need to attempt to do when you write your own stories, as you won't have much time to develop characters further. We also considered how his piece follows a typical narrative arc, with the introduction of a conflict, rising action, a climax (when he puts the eraser on Jim's desk), and resolution. The narrative offers a theme, as well, which is nicely summarized in the final paragraph. Our one criticism is that the narrative's first paragraph didn't grab our attention immediately. Then, students wrote a beginning to a narrative, with a person who inspired or caused a positive change in you as the topic. I collected writing from people who wanted feedback, and some students chose to keep their writing to work on in a subsequent class. If you would like to write something at home and give it to me tomorrow, or email it to me over the weekend, I would be happy to read and give feedback. All of the writing we do before Winter Break is for practice, though... so you don't have to hand in anything at this point, if you don't want to.

Novel Summative Assessments Now Due!

Yesterday, I collected novel projects from most students. If you have not spoken with me regarding an extension, then your project should be submitted to me tomorrow. I am looking forward to reading about your books! Yesterday, we began a unit on narrative writing. We considered some of our favourite stories of all time, and talked about what made them so good. We agreed that many great stories are based upon themes and issues that are reoccurring in literature. We made a list of "problems often encountered in fiction," to remind us of ideas for when it comes time to write. Then, we made heart maps, as a means to gathering some of the ideas for narratives that already live within us. Your hearts should stay with you, wherever you go.