Common Core: 8th Grade English Language Arts

This subject focuses on developing critical reading, writing, and analytical skills aligned with the Common Core standards for 8th grade English Language Arts.

Advanced Topics

Crafting Narratives

Telling Stories That Stick

Crafting narratives is about writing stories with interesting characters, vivid settings, and exciting plots. You'll use your creativity to make readers feel like they're right there with your characters.

What Makes a Great Narrative?

  • Characters: Make them unique with clear goals and personalities.
  • Setting: Use sensory details to describe places and times.
  • Plot: Include a beginning, middle, and end. Add a problem and a solution.
  • Dialogue: Let characters speak to show their personalities and move the story forward.
  • Voice: Write in a style that feels like you—funny, serious, mysterious, or anything in between!

Why It Matters

Storytelling is a powerful way to share ideas, solve problems, and connect with others. Great narratives can inspire, entertain, and teach.

Examples

  • Writing a short story about a student who solves a mystery at school.

  • Describing a summer vacation from the point of view of your pet.

In a Nutshell

Crafting narratives means writing stories with strong characters, settings, and plots.