Narrative Writing

Narrative writing tells a story. The story can be true, like something that happened to you, or made up, like a fairy tale. Narratives have characters, a setting, and events that happen in order. This is one of the oldest and most popular types of writing.

Elements of a Narrative

Every narrative has a few key parts. Characters are the people or animals in the story. The setting is where and when it takes place. The plot is the series of events that happen. Most narratives also have a conflict, which is a problem the characters must solve.

Writing Your Own Narrative

Think about a time something exciting or funny happened to you. Start at the beginning and tell events in order. Add details about how you felt and what you noticed. Use words like first, next, then, and finally to help the reader follow along.

Fun Facts

• People have been telling narratives around campfires for thousands of years.
• Personal narratives about your own life are one of the first types of writing kids learn in school.
• Movies, TV shows, and video games all use narrative storytelling.

Did You Know?

The word narrative comes from a Latin word meaning to tell or relate a story.