narrative essay graphic organizer high school pdf

I think all teachers would agree that teaching writing is a grueling process.  Narrative writing, in particular, is tough because it involves many different components.  Whether students are writing a personal narrative or a fictional narrative, it is critical that they learn to correctly construct their writing in a way that highlights their storyline.  Flowing through the elements of plot, character, and dialogue can quickly become overwhelming. In order to ease the feelings of overwhelm, I like to utilize graphic organizers throughout the entire writing process.  That way, students get a visual representation for each component of their narrative. Each organizer and the specific order of implementation is detailed below.

Narrative Concept Map

It might be obvious, but starting the teaching process by defining the term “narrative” is critical.  Of course, students know what stories are, but the word narrative might be new to them. The concept map provides a space to record the definition, add synonyms, construct an original sentence, and develop concrete examples.  If done well, students will start the writing process with a strong understanding of the expectations for narrative writing.

Theme Concept Map

The next graphic organizer is focused on the concept of theme .  In order for students to start thinking about possible themes ahead of time, I like to complete it with students before they start writing.  If students are clear on their theme, their stories tend to have more depth and meaning. The theme organizer is similar to the narrative organizer outlined above.  Students write the definition, provide a synonym or two, write an original sentence, then generate theme examples from familiar stories they have read in the past.

Plot Terms Concept Map

It is hard to write a narrative without a basic understanding of plot.  The ability to differentiate and understand the elements of plot is necessary for crafting an effective story.  Using a concept map to define each term will help students when it comes time to construct each part of their story.  Each element of the plot serves a specific purpose, which will hopefully be clear to students after they have completed the concept map for each term.

Literary Devices Concept Map

I like to spend a bit more time teaching students about the different literary devices they might want to include in their narratives.  Typically, I focus on one device at a time, possibly even creating a separate lesson plan for each one. The graphic organizer is nice because students can refer back to it when writing their narratives.  I like to require students to use three examples of literary devices in their story, which makes this graphic organizer a great point of reference later on in the writing process.

Character Traits Bubble Map

Brainstorming character traits is always fun because it gives students a chance to think about their favorite fictional characters and the specific traits those characters possess.  Filling up the bubble map also gives students a great deal of inspiration to work with when it’s time for them to start constructing characters of their own.

Character Maps

The character maps provide students with space to dive deeper into character creation.  It forces them to think about each character’s physical description, actions, feelings, and thoughts.  Without the character maps, students run the risk of creating flat characters. Taking the time to create deep and meaningful characters is an integral part of crafting a narrative.

Transition Words Bubble Map

Teaching students to incorporate different transition words into their narratives is so important.  Transition words are extremely helpful for the reader to be able to follow along and keep pace with the narrative.  Without them, the story might feel jumpy and disconnected. Providing the reader with transition words, helps them understand how the ideas flow together.  Like the literacy devices map described above, the transition words bubble map works well as a reference tool when students begin writing their narratives.

Types of Characters Double Bubble Map

Comparing and contrasting character types will give students a stronger foundation for developing their own characters.  It is important for students to know the difference between static characters and dynamic characters, not only for writing purposes, but for reading comprehension as well.  Your students might be creating both types of characters, but not know the terms used to define each type. The double bubble map helps to reinforce this concept.

Types of Conflict Double Bubble Map

Delving into the different types of conflict is also something I like to do before students start writing their narratives.  Conflict is a major component of all narratives, so I want to make sure students are extremely clear on the type of conflict they are presenting in their own story.  We take the time to compare and contrast both conflict types and look at examples of each. In my experience, external conflicts are more popular with fictional narratives, and internal conflicts are more popular with personal narratives.  That being said, both work well in either scenario.

Tone vs. Mood Double Bubble Map

Possibly the most difficult literary concept for students to understand is the difference between tone and mood.  I like to dedicate time for a stand-alone lesson on creating and utilizing tone and mood.  Overall, my goal is for students to have a general understanding of tone and mood, so they can successfully apply both to their own stories.

Sensory Words Tree Map

I love teaching imagery! The sensory words tree map encourages imagination and gives students a chance to get creative with their writing.  We start the tree map together as a class, and students finish on their own. I like to teaching students to use sensory details by describing their favorite meal.  Food is something that usually appeals to all five senses. When it’s time for students to add imagery to their own stories, they just need to think back to how they described their favorite meal.  They can also look back to their completed tree map for additional ideas.

Figurative Language Tree Map

Figurative language is a concept that is weaved throughout the entire school year.  I use the tree map to focus on the most common types of figurative language, and the devices that students are most likely going to add to their stories.  We work together to define and add an example for each type of figurative language. The tree map works well as a quick review and as a place for students to refer back to when they are looking to add figurative language to their narrative.

Point of View Tree Map

Understanding the differences in point of view is an important part of narrative writing.  If students are writing a personal narrative, they will most likely be writing in first person.  On the other hand, if students are writing a fictional narrative, they will most likely be writing in third person.  While understanding the differences in point of view can be tricky, most students will naturally gravitate to the correct use of point of view for their particular story.

Click here to download all fifteen Narrative Graphic Organizers from Literacy in Focus on TpT. 

Narrative Flow Map

The narrative flow map presents a different way of diagraming the plot.  It is essential that students work through each element of their story before they start writing.  Otherwise, the narrative may contain unnecessary elements or skip over critical components that are needed for a cohesive storyline.  The narrative flow map is a way for students to ensure that their story is complete and contains all necessary elements.

Plot Diagram

Most students will be familiar with a plot diagram.  Like the narrative flow map, the plot diagram ensures that students add all the necessary story elements to their narratives.  The plot diagram also serves as a great storytelling visual. Students can see how their story begins with the exposition, takes the reader up with the rising action, peaks at the climax, brings the reader back down with the falling action, and ties up all loose ends with the resolution.

Teaching students how to write a narrative doesn’t have to be difficult! You can pick and choose your favorite graphic organizers to use, or, if you have time, you can use all fifteen!  If you are interested in downloading all fifteen graphic organizers, click here to visit Literacy in Focus on TpT , and make them yours today!  All of the narrative organizers are printable and digital, making it easy for you to implement with or without technology!

“Very straightforward and easy to incorporate into my narrative writing unit. The digital copies were great for students who need technology to help with writing.” -Andrew M

Narrative Writing Graphic Organizer [Guide + Free Templates]

I’ve used narrative writing graphic organizers for writing stories and planning role-playing adventures.

Here is a quick summary about narrative writing graphic organizers:

Narrative writing graphic organizers are visual tools that help structure stories by organizing plot, characters, and events. They include plot diagrams, story maps, character maps, sequence charts, and conflict maps, aiding in creating coherent and engaging narratives.

This guide will show you what they are, the different types available, their benefits, and how to use them effectively.

What Is a Narrative Writing Graphic Organizer?

Table of Contents

A narrative writing graphic organizer is a visual tool used to plan and organize a narrative story.

It helps writers structure their thoughts, plot elements, and character development, ensuring a coherent and engaging story.

These organizers typically include sections for the introduction, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution.

They can also be referred to by other related names, which we will cover in the very next section.

Types of Narrative Writing Graphic Organizers

There are few major types of narrative writing graphic organizers:

Plot Diagram

Character map, sequence chart, conflict map.

Let’s go through each type so that you completely understand them.

• Introduction : Sets the scene and introduces characters.
• Rising Action : Builds tension and develops the plot.
• Climax : The turning point of the story.
• Falling Action : Events leading to the resolution.
• Resolution : The conclusion where loose ends are tied up.
• Title : The name of the story.
• Setting : Time and place where the story occurs.
• Characters : Main and supporting characters.
• Problem : The central conflict or challenge.
• Solution : How the problem is resolved.
• Name : The character’s name.
• Appearance : Physical description.
• Personality : Traits and characteristics.
• Role : The character’s role in the story.
• Development : How the character changes throughout the story.
• Events : List of key events in chronological order.
• Details : Specific details about each event.
• Outcome : Result of each event.
• Type of Conflict : Internal or external.
• Characters Involved : Who is part of the conflict.
• Nature of Conflict : Description of the conflict.
• Resolution : How the conflict is resolved.

Benefits of Using a Narrative Writing Graphic Organizer

• There are at least five big benefits for using a graphic organizer for your narrative writing.
• Enhances Organization Graphic organizers help writers structure their stories logically, making it easier to follow the plot and maintain coherence.
• Clarifies Ideas They provide a clear outline of the story, helping writers visualize and refine their ideas.
• Improves Storytelling By organizing elements like characters, settings, and events, graphic organizers enhance the overall storytelling quality.
• Aids in Plot Development They ensure that all critical elements of the plot are covered, preventing gaps and inconsistencies.
• Facilitates Revision Graphic organizers make it easier to review and revise the story, allowing writers to make improvements before the final draft.

How to Use a Graphic Organizer for Narrative Writing

Here is how to use a graphic organizer when narrative writing.

Choose the Right Organizer

Selecting the appropriate graphic organizer is crucial.

Consider the type of narrative you’re writing.

If you’re focusing on the plot, a plot diagram is ideal. For character-driven stories, a character map works best.

Story maps are great for a general overview, while sequence charts help with chronological events, and conflict maps are perfect for complex conflicts.

Take the time to understand your narrative’s needs before choosing your organizer.

Fill in the Sections

Begin by filling in the sections of your chosen graphic organizer.

Start with broad ideas and gradually add more details.

For a plot diagram, outline the introduction, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution. In a character map, describe the character’s appearance, personality, role, and development.

Don’t worry about getting everything perfect at this stage.

The goal is to get your ideas down on paper, which will make the story-writing process smoother.

Refine Your Ideas

Once you have the initial ideas down, review each section carefully.

Look for gaps in the narrative or areas that need more detail. For example, if the rising action in your plot diagram seems sparse, think about adding more events or complications.

If a character’s development seems flat, consider adding more depth to their personality or background.

Refining your ideas at this stage helps create a more cohesive and engaging story.

Write Your Draft

With a detailed graphic organizer as your guide, begin writing your first draft.

Use the structure provided by the organizer to maintain a logical flow.

For instance, follow the sequence of events in your plot diagram to ensure the story progresses naturally.

If you’re using a character map, incorporate the character traits and development into your narrative.

Having a clear roadmap will make the drafting process less daunting and more focused.

Revise and Edit

After completing your draft, use the graphic organizer to review and revise your story.

Check if all the elements align with what you initially planned.

For instance, ensure that the climax is indeed the story’s turning point and that the resolution ties up all loose ends.

If you find discrepancies, adjust your draft accordingly.

This step is crucial for polishing your narrative and making sure it’s as compelling as possible.

Iterate as Needed

Writing is an iterative process. Don’t be afraid to go back to your graphic organizer and make changes as your story evolves.

If new ideas come up during writing, update your organizer.

This flexibility allows you to keep your narrative organized even as it grows and changes.

Regularly revisiting and updating your organizer can help you stay on track and ensure all elements of your story are well-developed.

By following these detailed steps, you can effectively use a graphic organizer to enhance your narrative writing.

Whether you’re writing a short story, a novel, or planning an elaborate role-playing adventure, these tools can help you create structured, engaging, and well-rounded narratives.

Check out this video about using a narrative writing graphic organizer:

Where to Get a Narrative Writing Graphic Organizer

There are three main places to get a graphic organizer:

• Online Resources Websites like Teachers Pay Teachers, Pinterest, and educational blogs offer various graphic organizers that you can download and print.
• Educational Software Programs like Microsoft Word, Google Docs, and Canva have templates for creating graphic organizers. These can be customized to fit your needs.
• Create Your Own If you prefer a personalized touch, you can create your own graphic organizer using paper and markers or digital tools like drawing apps.

Free Templates for Narrative Writing Graphic Organizers

And, to make your life easier, here are free templates you can use:

Plot Diagram Template

Introduction:

• Setting : Where and when does the story take place?
• Characters : Who are the main characters?

Rising Action:

• Event 1 : What happens first to build tension?
• Event 2 : What happens next?
• Event 3 : What further escalates the tension?
• Turning Point : What is the most intense moment or turning point?

Falling Action:

• Event 1 : What happens after the climax?
• Event 2 : How do characters respond?

Resolution:

• Conclusion : How is the conflict resolved?
• Final Thoughts : What is the outcome for the characters?

Story Map Template

• Time : When does the story take place?
• Place : Where does the story occur?

Characters:

• Main Character : Who is the protagonist?
• Supporting Characters : Who are the other important characters?
• Conflict : What is the main problem or challenge?
• Resolution : How is the problem solved?

Character Map Template

Appearance:

• Physical Description : What does the character look like?

Personality:

• Traits : What are the key personality traits?
• Function in Story : What role does the character play in the narrative?

Development:

• Growth : How does the character change throughout the story?

Sequence Chart Template

• Description : What happens first?
• Details : Important specifics.
• Description : What happens next?
• Description : What happens afterward?
• Final Event : What is the final event?
• Resolution : How does this event resolve the sequence?

Conflict Map Template

Type of Conflict:

• Internal/External : Is the conflict internal or external?

Characters Involved:

• Protagonist : Who is the main character involved?
• Antagonist : Who or what is the opposing force?

Nature of Conflict:

• Description : What is the conflict about?
• Outcome : How is the conflict resolved?

Answering Common Questions

Let’s answer some questions people often ask about these graphic organizers.

What Graphic Organizer is Appropriate in a Narrative Text Structure?

A plot diagram is highly appropriate for narrative text structures as it clearly outlines the introduction, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution.

What are the 5 Elements of a Story Graphic Organizer?

• Opening : Introduces the setting and characters.
• Escalation : Intensifies the plot with key events.
• Turning Point : Reaches the most critical moment.
• Decline : Moves towards wrapping up the story.
• Conclusion : Resolves the plot and finalizes the narrative.

What are 5 Examples of Narrative Writing?

• Personal Anecdotes : Short personal stories.
• Biographies : Life stories of individuals.
• Fictional Stories : Imaginary tales.
• Historical Narratives : Stories based on historical events.
• Myths and Legends : Traditional stories passed down through generations.

Narrative Writing Graphic Organizers Alternatives

If narrative writing graphic organizers don’t suit your style or needs, there are several alternatives to consider.

These options also help in organizing and planning your stories effectively.

Mind maps allow you to brainstorm ideas in a non-linear fashion. Start with a central concept and branch out with related ideas, characters, and events. This method is flexible and visually engaging.

Storyboarding

Originally used in filmmaking, storyboarding involves creating a visual sequence of events. Each “board” represents a scene or key moment, helping you visualize the flow of your story.

Index Cards

Write key plot points, scenes, or character details on index cards. You can easily shuffle and rearrange them to explore different narrative structures and plot developments.

A traditional outline lists the main plot points in sequential order. This method is straightforward and helps ensure you don’t miss any critical elements of your story.

Digital Tools

Software like Scrivener or yWriter offers built-in tools for organizing your writing. These programs often include features like virtual corkboards, character profiles, and plot tracking.

Journal Entries

Writing journal entries from your characters’ perspectives can help you explore their thoughts and motivations in-depth. This method can also help you develop a more intimate understanding of your story.

Final Thoughts: Narrative Writing Graphic Organizer

Using narrative writing graphic organizers can transform your storytelling.

They simplify the planning process, clarify your ideas, and ensure a well-structured narrative. Embrace these tools to elevate your writing and bring your stories to life with greater ease and creativity.

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Narrative Essay Graphic Organizer

Outline a story’s beginning, middle, and end with this narrative essay graphic organizer.

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Graphic Organizers for Personal Narratives

https://www.scholastic.com/teachers/blog-posts/genia-connell/graphic-organizers-personal-narratives/

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Free Editable Narrative Writing Graphic Organizer Examples

Creativity and writing go hand in hand and are some of the most demanding skills for everyone. We always look forward to our kid's progress in the creative writing classes and workshops. There is so much to teach, from vocabulary to structure and idea generation. So, our job is to make this a pleasant experience for the kids to enable them to learn what they are bound to enjoy. A narrative writing graphic organizer is a creative way to learn narrative writing without overwhelming the students.

1. What is a Narrative Writing Graphic Organizer

In personal narratives, organizing thoughts and ideas before starting writing is a crucial step. Narrative graphic organizers are perfect tools to help the students dig down into the key details and explore their thoughts and ideas. Narrative writing graphic organizers are helpful in both completing writing projects and also for reference in future projects.

Narrative writing graphic organizers are very supportive in creative writing because they save time and efforts for students and the teachers. Their focus is to divide the whole exercise into small chunks and allow the child to fill in details to come up with a complete recount or narrative of events and ideas.

2. The Narrative Writing Graphic Organizer Examples

Below are 9 editable narrative writing graphic organizer examples for you to choose from.

Example 1: Writing Personal Narratives: Watermelon Graphic Organizer

This Watermelon graphic organizer is used to help students brainstorm a big narrative idea. Students divide their writing into small moments. They narrow down their report of significant moment experience to specific small moments. Watermelon narrative writing graphic organizer is presented as a fun template. They think of a watermelon slice as an event, while the small moment details are the seeds. This way, students do not get overwhelmed with the scale of more information. So, they start small and build their narrative gradually.

Example 2: Narrative Writing Graphic Organizer Template

Narrative writing graphic organizer template is a graphic organizer for students to create a personal narrative story. In this template, students first summarize the details of what they are going to write. This summary may include what happened, where it happened when it happened, and who the characters are. Students then add the details in the form of the beginning, middle, and end sequencing format. This graphic organizer for narrative writing template is incredibly supportive in writing biographies, travelogues, and event descriptions.

Example 3: Narrative Writing Brainstorm Graphic Organizer

Personal narratives are complicated for many students because the structure is not very particular. Narrative writing brainstorm graphic organizer is a sequencing guide for students to follow this structure for brainstorming, listing out characters, settings, event sequencing, and sensory details.

This narrative writing graphic organizer follows this structure.

• Brainstorming
• Who did it, when did it happen, where did it happen?
• What happened at the beginning, middle, and end of the event?
• Students dig deeper into details of the event along with sensory information.

Example 4: Personal Narrative Graphic Organizer interactive worksheet

Personal narrative graphic organizer interactive worksheet is also based on the description of small moments. This worksheet starts with the small moment event. Then there are some questions pushing the student to give details of their memory. It asks 'who is in this story with you?', 'When/Where does this take place?' emotions, feelings, and sensory details. Later it asks for an attractive first sentence and then the details of the memory. Finally, the conclusion is written. So, in small steps, students can come up with a complete personal narrative. You can see the importance of graphic organizers for narrative writing in guiding the students without overwhelming them.

Example 5: Narrative Writing Graphic Organizer Example

This narrative writing graphic organizer example presents the student with some blocks for filling in the details. This is also a great tool to support the students to write a detailed account of a problem situation gradually with small stepping stones. This organizer first asks for the character descriptions, setting to describe when and where the event happened, the problem, and the solution.

The next step is the plot, where the students will fill in the start, building, and the end of the event.

Example 6: Graphic Organizer for Narrative Writing

A graphic organizer for narrative writing is a perfect solution for young students in the early grades. This narrative writing graphic organizer is the simplest form of an organizer. It starts with the title, topic, and purpose. Then we ask the students to write the first catching sentence. Followed by the first sentence, we want the details of the event in three steps. Write the first, next, and the last piece and end it with the conclusion.

Source: EdrawMax Online Edit Now

Example 7: Narrative Writing Planning Graphic Organizer

This graphic organizer for narrative writing is an organizer that focuses on sensory details. It asks the students to draw their narrative scenes and then recall the smell, taste, feels, hears, and what they saw in that event. So, this recount is more about the feeling than the words.

Example 8: Narrative Writing Graphic Organizer: Beginning-Middle-End

Narrative writing graphic organizer is suitable for students with command over written words and vocabulary. It again calls for the beginning, middle, and end of the event. The student can go step by step on the recount of the event and describe what happened. However, it lacks particular boxes for characters and settings. In the end, the students fill in the last box with the summary.

Example 9: Narrative Writing Graphic Organizer Middle School

Online narrative writing graphic organizer is another simplest form of a graphic organizer. It simply asks the students to fill in the introduction, middle, and conclusion. For the lack of more prompts, we can assume that this organizer is again more suited for the older student who has command of writing and vocabulary. As the name suggests, this is for middle school students.

3. Online Narrative Writing Graphic Organizer Maker

A Graphic organizer maker is an excellent tool for teachers and mentors to create narrative writing graphic organizers according to the needs and skills of their pupils. EdrawMax Online is a robust tool for quickly creating graphic organizers in little time. Since the teachers are very busy and need easy-to-use tools to support their teaching endeavors, EdrawMax Online is excellent support. The best part of this tool is the availability of pre-made templates that can be used right away and customized. There are templates available at Template Gallery for more than 280+ types of drawings.

4. Key Takeaways

Graphic organizers for narrative writing support teachers, parents, and students for tension-free creative writing. Children love to tell their stories and experiences, but when we force them to follow a particular structure, writing style, and vocabulary, it becomes a stressful situation. Narrative writing graphic organizers support this situation and present fun solutions for making creative writing stress-free.

EdrawMax Online is a quick-start graphic organizer maker that makes making graphic organizers very easy and less time-consuming. It has many shapes, symbols, and text tools for drawings. The templates available at Template Gallery make the tasks even more accessible.

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Free Graphic Organizer Templates

Help your students classify ideas and communicate more effectively with these free graphic organizer templates, available for download. They can be used to structure writing projects and help in problem solving, decision making, studying, planning research, and brainstorming.

Printable Graphic Organizers

Select a blank graphic organizer from the following categories depending on your curriculum needs.

Sequence of Events

• Step-by-Step Chart
• Sequence Chart
• Time-Order Chart

Main Topic and Key Details

• Garden Gate
• Describing Wheel
• Cluster/Word Web 1
• Cluster/Word Web 2
• Cluster/Word Web 3
• Ticktacktoe
• Four-Column Chart
• Inverted Triangle
• Persuasion Map
• Ice Cream Cone

Compare/Contrast

• Venn Diagram

Story Planning

• Story Map 1
• Story Map 2
• Story Map 3
• Planning Chart

Essay Planning

• Introduction Paragraph Outline
• Five-Paragraph Essay Outline

Other Graphic Organizers

• Sense Chart
• Problem/Solution Chart
• ISP Chart (Information, Sources, Page)
• Fact and Opinion
• Five W's Chart
• Goal-Reasons Web
• Observation Chart

Offer a balanced approach to literacy instruction and build a culture of growth with HMH Into Reading .

Fourth-grade teacher Toney Jackson differentiates instruction with rhymes and raps on Teachers in America.

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Teach Students How to Write Personal Narratives with Graphic Organizers

• August 21, 2022

If you’re teaching students how to write personal narratives by taking them through the writing process, then you are doing what’s best for your writers! You know that great writing takes work–prewriting, drafting, revising, and editing.

For this reason, today’s blog post will focus on using graphic organizers to plan and draft student narratives. If your students have decided on a topic, then keep reading. If they haven’t, then visit post #2, “Find Authentic Topics for a Personal Narrative with These 5 Powerful Strategies,” for engaging activities to help students find unique topics. Also stay tuned for my upcoming posts where I’ll share strategies for revising, editing, and publishing personal narratives.

Now let’s get started!

I’m sharing three graphic organizers with you: Freytag’s Pyramid, Circle of a Moment, and a BME (Beginning, Middle, End) Chart. Read through the post, and decide which is best for your students at this time. (Later you can use another one for short story writing. These organizers will work for both.) 

Whether you choose the pyramid, circle, or chart, remember to model each step for students. Show them what to do one step at a time; then have them do it. You are welcome to use my examples, but if you feel comfortable doing this with your own story, then do that. It would work better because you can model your thinking as you write. Also, stop every so often to allow a few minutes for quick elbow-partner or whole-class readings. This will add inspiration and engagement.

As with every blog post I write, I am providing you with step-by-step instructions, but if you prefer the handouts, you can purchase them at my TPT store .

How to Write Personal Narratives Using Freytag’s Pyramid

If you have advanced learners or you are studying Freytag’s Pyramid, aka plot mountain, then use this organizer to help students plan their narratives. This will allow them to make connections between their reading and writing objectives. Plus, you can hit at least two goals with one lesson!

Plan Your Narratives

Draw a triangle-shaped mountain and label the elements of Freytag’s Pyramid, as seen in the above image, as you project it onto your screen for students to view and copy. Next, walk them through each element.

Remind students that writers introduce characters, describe the setting, and hint at the conflict in the exposition. List the characters who were present in your story, remembering to include yourself since this is a true story about a moment you lived. Next, describe when and where the story took place. Then hint at the conflict by writing what might concern the reader. 

In my example, I wrote, “My sister and I were playing in the dryer.” This already hints at the conflict since no child should be playing in a dryer, but I build on that by also noting that my story takes place in a garage in Texas during the summer. (Texas summers are hot; one hundred-degree days almost seem normal.)

Rising Action and Climax

I usually prefer doing things in order, but I’m going to change things up here. To help students understand rising action, move to the climax then return to the rising action. 

For the climax, think of the most exciting part of the story that serves as a turning point where the outcome of the conflict becomes clear, and write it at the top of the mountain. Then, for the rising action, note the actions that develop the conflict and occur before the climax in that section of the pyramid. The goal is to build suspense for readers as you develop the conflict.

In my example, the climax occurs when I knock on the dryer’s window to let my parents know where I am. This is the turning point of my story, where the outcome becomes clear. I don’t die. Actions in the rising action include the events that lead up to that moment, such as me getting locked in the dryer and not wanting to tell my father about it for fear of getting spanked. When you decide on the climax of the story, the actions that lead up to it will be easier to identify.

Falling Action

In the falling action, tension is eased as authors reveal how events unfold as a result of the climax, so note what happens after the climax. 

In my example, I include Mom pulling me out of the dryer and bathing me.

In the resolution, authors tie up loose ends and reveal how everything turns out. Personal narratives often end with a lesson learned, a reflection on the moment, or a prediction of what might happen in the future. For my prewriting here, I wrote, “My dad was in trouble for not watching us” and “Life is a great teacher.” Think of what you learned from this experience, and write it down. 

One more note here. When you think of life lessons, think deeply. If you are attacked by bees in your story, you want a more thoughtful lesson than don’t play with bees . If you do use that, make sure to develop it.

When you begin class with a warm-up, model each of these steps, and allow some time for writers to read what they wrote to the class, this planning session will take a forty-five-minute period. Just so you know. 😉

Draft Your Narratives

When drafting their narratives, students need time to write, so make sure to give them that time. While they’re writing, you can draft your narrative and conference with students about their writings. 

Use your pyramid to guide you as you draft your narrative, filling in the details as you write. 

Also, remember to allow students to read their writings to an elbow partner or the class. They want to share what they wrote, and it does help build classroom community.

How to Write Personal Narratives Using Circle of a Moment

What I like about this graphic organizer is its uniqueness. Students respond well to activities that are different, even when it’s just writing in circles instead of lines. I’ve mainly used it with regular-level students, but it works well for all levels.

Again, model each step for students while projecting your writing onto the screen.

Begin by drawing four circles onto a sheet of paper, one circle inside the other. (A compass will come in handy here.) Make your circles as large as possible so that you have plenty of room to write. Then draw three lines from the inner to the outer circle as seen in the above example.

For your prewriting, start in the middle of the circle and work your way out. 

In the center circle, write the topic of your personal narrative. I used the dryer story for all of these prewritings, so mine says “dryer incident.”

In the next circle, note the people, the setting, and the conflict of your story.

In the third circle, write what happened at the beginning, the middle, and the end. (The exposition and rising action will be the beginning, the climax will be the middle, and the falling action and resolution will be the end.)

Finally, in the outer circle, note a lesson learned, a prediction for the future, and a reflection on the moment.

As with the pyramid organizer, you’ll use this one to guide you as you write your draft. Begin with the second circle where you noted the characters, setting, and conflict. (Setting and character descriptions can be great hooks for narratives, which I’ll discuss more in my next blog post.) 

Next, move to the third circle (with the beginning, middle, and end), and write your story in that order, adding as many details as you can remember.

Finally, move to the last circle. You’ll notice this circle includes three ways to end your narrative, but you don’t need to use all of them. Choose the one you think is best or a combination of two or three, and conclude your story. 

How to Write Personal Narratives Using a BME Chart

If you or your reading teacher are using a beginning, middle, and end strategy for reading instruction, then this is the perfect time to use this chart. Because of its simplicity, this organizer is also good for lower-level students. 

Draw and label a chart, as seen in the above example, with five sections labeled introduction , beginning , middle , end , and conclusion . 

In the introduction, write who was present for the story, where the story takes place, and what might concern the reader.

In the beginning, middle, and end sections, write about the events that happen first, second, third, etc., and note how your story ends.

Finally, in the conclusion, write a lesson you learned from this experience and reflect on the moment. How do you feel about that moment today? Think about it and write it down.

Using your chart as a guide, start drafting your narrative, bringing in all of the details you can remember. Start with the introduction. Move to the beginning, middle, and end sections. When you’ve finished with those steps, conclude with a lesson and/or a reflection on the moment. 

Remember to provide students with plenty of time for writing and a few minutes for sharing. 

Close Your Lesson

Close any of these lessons with an exit slip where students note a question they have or explain how to write a personal narrative. You can begin your next period together by reading a few of these to students while answering questions, offering praise, and clarifying misconceptions.

You should now have some unique drafts! Prepare to move on to the next steps to make them even better!

If you’d like any of these handouts, visit Graphic Organizers for Personal Narratives  at my TPT store .

Tips for Students Writing Personal Narratives

Tips for Teaching Personal Narrative Writing

• Make sure students have decided on a topic before beginning these activities. (See blog #2, “Find Authentic Topics for a Personal Narrative with These 5 Strategies,” for engaging activities.)
• Read examples of good personal narratives so students will know what they’re expected to write.
• Have students keep their prewriting and drafts in a writer’s notebook so that they can find them.
• Use the organizers that work best for your students. If you’re studying plot development, use Freytag’s Pyramid. If you’re using a beginning-middle-end strategy for summarizing, then use the BME Chart. (I’ve also used these for differentiating with the pyramid for higher-level students, the circle for regular-level, and the chart for lower-level.)
• When using the organizers, model each step for students.
• Allow students plenty of time for drafting their narratives.
• Remind students to write in first person (using the pronoun I ).
• Since personal narratives are stories about past events, they should be written in the past tense.
• Allow students to read portions of their organizers and their drafts to an elbow partner or the entire class.
• Close the lesson with exit slips where students ask questions or summarize what they’ve learned. 

Related Links

Blog Post #5: Writing a Hook to Reel in Your Readers Immediately

This post explains how you can teach students to revise their introductions for personal narratives or any essay.

Find Authentic Topics for a Personal Narrative with These 5 Powerful Strategies

This blog post discusses activities to help students decide on topics for their personal narratives.

How to Write a Personal Narrative

This post gives tips for writing a personal narrative with everything from topics to writing. 

How to Write a Personal Narrative: Steps and Examples  

For personal narrative writing guidelines, visit this link.

Teachers & Writers Magazine / This IBelieve: Personal Narratives by High School Students  

This site includes personal narratives written by high school students. (You want students to read what they’re expected to write.)

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10 Free Graphic Organizer Templates for Any Subject

Different lessons require different types of content to help students learn. Here are 10 free graphic organizer templates to use for any subject.

Most students are returning to the classroom in Fall 2021, but everyone’s learning methods have had to change over the past two years. It’s important to adapt as an educator with new techniques , digital materials, and fresh content to keep students engaged .

For any subject, graphic organizers provide effective ways to introduce, teach, develop, and test new material. But different lessons require different types of content to help students learn best. I’m going to give you 10 free graphic organizer templates to use for any subject – just use the Make It button to customize, label, and download your graphic organizer.

• Venn Diagram
• Plot Pyramid
• Brainstorm Chart
• Concept Map
• 5-Paragraph Essay Outline
• 4 Square Writing Chart

1. Flowchart

The Flowchart is one of the most versatile and recognizable forms of graphic organizer out there, ideal for project planning and science experiments. A goes to B goes to C goes to D . With this version, you can copy and paste sections of the chart to make it as long or as short as you need, label each section with specific details, and add a title and other information for your assignment.

2. Timeline

The Timeline is similar to the flowchart , with events spaced out along a single path . In a Timeline, however, the intervals between the events is important to the graphic organizer as a whole. Using this template, you can drag events from one point of the Timeline to another, and add text labels for years and events.

3. Venn Diagram

One of the most widely-used graphic organizers, the Venn Diagram provides a simple way for students to compare and contrast 2 or more distinct ideas. With this template, you can copy and recolor the Venn Diagram circles to compare any number of items with each other.

4. Plot Pyramid

This graphic organizer is most commonly used in elementary and middle school English, language arts, and literature classes. It’s used to identify and map the various stages of a plot arc , from exposition to conclusion. Use this template to title the Plot Pyramid and add any other relevant information you need.

5. Brainstorm Chart

The Brainstorm Chart is a far more freeform type of graphic organizer than most others on this list, and can be arranged almost any way you like. All it requires is a central idea or “problem” to solve, along with an array of other ideas and concepts that are connected to it, and supporting details for these connected points. The freeform nature of the Brainstorm Chart allows students to think creatively and originally on any subject.

6. Concept Map

The Concept Map is similar in form to the Brainstorm Chart, but with slightly more limitations on how it’s used. It’s used to illustrate the relationships that exist between various related concepts , filling in different sections of the organizer to show how the different parts are connected. The Concept Map is perfect for introducing students to a new set of related vocabulary terms in any subject.

7. 5-Paragraph Essay Outline

While some of your students may not remember the 5-paragraph essay too fondly years later, it’s an important step in developing their persuasive writing . This classic 5-paragraph planner is perfect for helping students construct their arguments, counter-arguments, supporting data, and conclusions before they put pen to paper.

8. 4 Square Writing Chart

The 4 Square Writing Chart is similar to the 5-paragraph essay outline, it gives space for looser organizational styles and more creative types of writing structure . The central area contains the main idea or argument, and the surrounding squares are filled with supporting arguments, sections of a narrative essay, personal experiences, or several sides to the same story.

9. Story Map

The Story Map is used for a similar purpose to the Plot Pyramid, but with a broader approach to narrative plot arcs. In the Story Map, students not only recount the plot progression of a story, but detail the setting , characters , and central problems and outcomes . There are dozens of ways to organize your own Story Map, so I recommend you use this template to include whatever areas are most important for your students to identify and analyze.

10. KWL Chart

KWL Charts ask students to write on three different things before and after completing a lesson, activity, or reading: what they Know already about the topic, what they Want to learn from the lesson, and, afterward, what they Learned from the experience. It creates more of a big-picture exercise than most of the graphic organizers on this list, allowing students to identify what they gain from their lessons.

I hope these graphic organizer templates help you engage students effectively in every subject you teach. For more tips and tutorials on creating great digital content in 2021, check out the Kapwing YouTube channel or read through some related articles on education materials:

• 10 Back to School Frames for Fall 2021 • The 4 Best Ways to Learn Video Editing Online • How to Add Subtitles to a Lecture Video • How to Make a Frayer Model Online

How to Make a Graduation Video for TikTok or Reels

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Essay Papers Writing Online

Effective essay writing graphic organizers to enhance your academic writing skills.

Are you looking for ways to enhance your essay writing skills? Do you struggle to organize your thoughts and ideas effectively? Utilizing graphic organizers can be the key to improving your writing process and producing more cohesive and structured essays.

Graphic organizers are visual tools that help writers brainstorm, plan, and organize their writing. They provide a visual representation of the relationships between ideas, making it easier to see the big picture and the flow of your essay. By using graphic organizers, you can break down complex topics into manageable chunks and create a roadmap for your writing.

Whether you’re a student working on academic essays or a professional writer crafting articles, utilizing graphic organizers can make a significant difference in the clarity and coherence of your writing. In this article, we will explore the benefits of using graphic organizers, discuss different types of organizers, and provide tips on how to effectively incorporate them into your writing process.

Master the Basics

Before delving into the complexities of essay writing, it is crucial to master the basics. Understanding the fundamental elements of an essay, such as the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion, is essential for crafting a coherent and compelling piece of writing.

• Start with a strong introduction that grabs the reader’s attention and clearly states your main argument.
• Develop your ideas in the body paragraphs with supporting evidence and analysis.
• Conclude your essay by summarizing your key points and reinforcing your main thesis.

By mastering these basic components of essay writing, you can better structure your ideas and effectively communicate your thoughts to your audience.

Understanding the Essay Structure

When it comes to writing an effective essay, understanding the structure is crucial. An essay typically consists of three main parts: an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

Introduction: This is where you grab the reader’s attention and provide a brief overview of what your essay will be about. The introduction should also include a thesis statement, which is the main point or argument of your essay.

Body paragraphs: The body of your essay is where you develop your argument and provide supporting evidence. Each paragraph should focus on a single point and include detailed explanations and examples to support your thesis.

Conclusion: The conclusion is where you wrap up your essay by summarizing your main points and restating your thesis. It’s also a good place to leave the reader with a thought-provoking idea or call to action.

By understanding and utilizing this basic essay structure, you can ensure that your writing is clear, organized, and effective.

Choose the Right Organizer

When it comes to effective essay writing, choosing the right graphic organizer can make a significant difference in organizing your thoughts and boosting your writing skills. There are various types of organizers to choose from, such as the outline, Venn diagram, flowchart, concept map, and more. It’s essential to select an organizer that best fits the structure of your essay and helps you clearly outline your ideas.

Outlining: If you prefer a straightforward approach, an outline organizer can help you create a clear and organized structure for your essay. Use headings and subheadings to categorize your main points and supporting details.

Venn Diagram: A Venn diagram can be useful when comparing and contrasting ideas or topics. It allows you to visually represent the similarities and differences between two or more concepts.

Flowchart: For essays with a sequential flow of ideas, a flowchart organizer is ideal. Create a visual representation of the sequence of events or steps in your essay to ensure a logical progression of ideas.

Concept Map: If you want to explore the relationships between different concepts in your essay, a concept map can help you visualize the connections between ideas and brainstorm new insights.

Choosing the right organizer is crucial to effectively structure your essay and enhance your writing skills. Experiment with different types of organizers to find the one that best suits your writing style and helps you convey your ideas clearly and cohesively.

Selecting the Best Graphic Tool

When choosing a graphic organizer tool for your essay writing process, it is essential to consider various factors to ensure its effectiveness. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Type of Essay: Consider the type of essay you are writing and choose a graphic organizer that best fits the structure and organization needed for that particular essay type.
• Complexity: Evaluate the complexity of your ideas and arguments to determine the level of detail and hierarchy required in the graphic organizer.
• Visual Appeal: Look for a tool that is visually appealing and easy to comprehend, as this will help you better visualize and organize your thoughts.
• Flexibility: Opt for a tool that offers flexibility in terms of customization, allowing you to adjust the layout and structure based on your specific needs.
• Accessibility: Ensure that the graphic organizer tool you choose is accessible and easy to use on your preferred devices and platforms.

By carefully considering these factors, you can select the best graphic tool that will enhance your essay writing process and improve the clarity and coherence of your ideas.

Organize Your Ideas

Before diving into writing your essay, it’s crucial to organize your ideas to ensure a clear and coherent flow of information. Using graphic organizers can help you visually map out your thoughts and easily see how they connect. Here are some effective ways to organize your ideas:

• Outline: Create a detailed outline with main points, subpoints, and supporting evidence to structure your essay.
• Brainstorming: Brainstorm ideas and jot them down on a mind map to see relationships between different concepts.
• Cluster/Spider Diagrams: Use cluster or spider diagrams to group related ideas together and visualize the structure of your essay.
• Storyboard: Create a storyboard with key events or arguments to plan out the sequence of your essay.

By organizing your ideas using graphic organizers, you can enhance the clarity and coherence of your essay, making it easier for readers to follow your argument.

Mapping Out Your Thoughts

One of the most effective tools for organizing your thoughts and ideas before starting to write an essay is a graphic organizer. By using a graphic organizer, you can visually map out your thoughts, main points, and supporting details. This helps you clarify your ideas and ensure that your essay has a logical structure.

There are various types of graphic organizers you can use, such as mind maps, concept maps, Venn diagrams, and flowcharts. Choose the one that best suits your writing style and the topic of your essay. Once you have selected a graphic organizer, start by jotting down your main idea in the center and then branch out to include your supporting points and details.

Mapping out your thoughts using a graphic organizer will not only help you stay focused and organized but also make the writing process smoother and more efficient. It can serve as a roadmap for your essay, guiding you through each section and ensuring that your ideas flow cohesively.

Develop Strong Arguments

Effective essay writing requires the development of strong arguments to persuade the reader of your perspective. To create compelling arguments, follow these key strategies:

• Research: Conduct thorough research to gather credible evidence and support for your arguments. Use reliable sources to strengthen your points.
• Structure: Organize your arguments logically and coherently. Start with a clear thesis statement and build each argument in a structured manner.
• Counterarguments: Anticipate counterarguments and address them in your essay. This shows that you have considered different viewpoints and strengthens your own position.
• Evidence: Support your arguments with relevant evidence, such as examples, statistics, and expert opinions. This adds credibility and persuasiveness to your essay.
• Clarity: Clearly articulate your arguments and provide explanations to ensure that your points are easily understood by the reader.
• Consistency: Ensure that your arguments are consistent throughout the essay. Avoid contradictions or inconsistencies that may weaken your overall argument.

By developing strong arguments with these key strategies, you can enhance the effectiveness of your essay writing and convey your ideas convincingly to your audience.

Building a Persuasive Case

When writing a persuasive essay, it is crucial to build a compelling case to persuade your audience to agree with your viewpoint. Here are some key steps to help you construct a persuasive case:

• Clear Thesis Statement: Start by clearly stating your position or argument in a concise thesis statement. This statement should clearly convey what you are trying to persuade your readers to believe or do.
• Supporting Evidence: Back up your thesis statement with strong evidence, facts, statistics, examples, and expert opinions. Providing solid evidence can make your case more convincing and credible.
• Logical Organization: Structure your essay in a logical and coherent manner. Develop your arguments in a clear sequence, with each point building upon the previous one to strengthen your case.
• Address Counterarguments: Anticipate potential counterarguments and address them in your essay. Acknowledging opposing viewpoints and refuting them can make your argument more persuasive.
• Emotional Appeal: Use emotional appeals, anecdotes, and narratives to connect with your audience on a personal level. Appeal to the emotions of your readers to make them more likely to empathize with your argument.
• Call to Action: End your essay with a strong call to action that urges your audience to take a specific course of action or consider your perspective. Encouraging your readers to act can motivate them to support your cause.

By following these steps and building a persuasive case in your essay, you can effectively convince your audience to embrace your ideas and opinions.

Enhance Your Writing Flow

One of the key elements in effective essay writing is maintaining a smooth and consistent flow throughout your piece. A well-structured essay should lead the reader from one point to the next seamlessly, with each paragraph naturally transitioning into the next.

To enhance your writing flow, consider using transitional words and phrases such as “furthermore,” “however,” “in addition,” and “conversely” to connect your ideas and guide the reader through your argument. These transitions help establish logical connections between your thoughts and make your writing more coherent.

Additionally, vary your sentence structure and length to create a dynamic rhythm in your writing. Mixing short, punchy sentences with longer, more elaborate ones can keep your reader engaged and prevent your writing from feeling monotonous.

Finally, don’t be afraid to revise and reorganize your essay to ensure a smooth and consistent flow. Take the time to read your work aloud or have someone else review it to identify any awkward or disjointed sections that may disrupt the flow of your writing.

By paying attention to these techniques and practicing them regularly, you can enhance your writing flow and take your essay writing skills to the next level.

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Narrative Writing Graphic Organizer: Working Hard to Earn Something

Hard work pays off! Use this graphic organizer worksheet to help your middle school students plan a personal narrative about a time they worked hard to earn something. In this middle-grades worksheet, Narrative Writing Graphic Organizer: Working Hard to Earn Something, students will kick off the writing process by planning their introduction, determining the sequence of events, brainstorming dialogue and details, and finishing off with a strong conclusion.

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