Summer Photos Inspire Narrative Writing

Summer is over and school is in session. This can be a depressing thought for many middle school and high school students. However, many students hold a special place in their hearts for summer. Teachers can tap into this feeling with the right photo to help inspire great pieces of writing.
Choose a Summer Photo
Before beginning the writing process, ask students to find a favorite summer photo. These photos should be ones that have special meaning or are just beautiful.
If students cannot locate a photo, five summer photos are included with this article for students to use. Or, students can find copy right free digital photos at several online sites.
Page Length of the Narrative
Most stories should be around three pages. This may send some students whining about it being too long or too short. To be quite honest, most middle school students can write a three page story. The hardest part is to stop at the three pages.
For students to write a great narrative, they need to not ramble. This means they need to be inspired by their photo and have a strong beginning, middle and end in mind before writing the narrative.
If a student can write a great story in ten pages that stays focused on the planned plot, then let that students write ten pages. However, if a student rambles because he or she does not know how to end the story, make the student pick an ending and edit out the fluff.
Review Plot, Characterization and Dialogue
To stay on track when writing, students need to decide their plot elements for their story before writing the opening paragraph. They need to figure out the setting in the exposition, the conflicts in the rising action, a climax, the falling action and the resolution.
Next, they need to create main characters that a reader will care about while reading the piece. If the characters do not appeal to the reader, then the reader will not want to finish the story. What makes an interesting person will also make an interesting character.
Students also need to think about dialogue. How would the character talk and what would be the funny things that the character would say? Students need to think about this as they develop the main characters.
Titles and Style
Students also need to choose a catchy title that will draw in the reader. The teacher has to read the piece, but most writers want others to read their writing as well. Students should take some time to choose a great title.
In addition, the students need to also think about using figurative language. Metaphors, similes, hyperbole and alliteration can add interest to any piece, not just poetry. In addition, great imagery should involve all five senses for the reader to visualize the story.
By using summer memories to inspire a short story and reviewing narrative elements, students should be able to come up with some great stories. When they find the perfect picture, they will start writing. It is up to the teacher to help them keep from rambling and to help them craft the perfect story.

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