As English teachers know, a lot of stories are the same story. Breaking down that successful narrative pattern with students can help writers organize their ideas, readers summarize previous books, and teachers enjoy a low-prep lesson to keep in their teaching toolbox.
Here’s how a Story Path looks (click here to download a free copy):
This worksheet could be turned into a stand-alone creative writing lesson, pre-writing activity for a longer creative work, a buffer lesson between major units, summary of previously read works, or last-minute sub plans. The worksheet also serves as a nice supplement to my storytelling arc and/or Hero’s Journey lesson materials.
Storytelling arc (free download):
https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Storytelling-Arc-FREE-Handout-to-Use-With-ANY-Literature-PDF-Google-Drive-718088
Hero’s Journey (free download):
https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Heros-Journey-Joseph-Campbell-Hero-Journey-Free-PDF-Google-Drive-materials-467634
Please note: This lesson includes a rewritten and expanded version of a tweet by former Pixar employee Emma Coats. Her tweet can be viewed here: https://twitter.com/lawnrocket/status/201018115604230146
This lesson idea is inspired by, but not a duplicate of, Coats’ work, as allowed by U.S. Copyright Office Circular 14: Derivative Works.
What other creative writing tools do you love? Help other teachers and leave a reply below!
