Introduction
In Paper 2's Section B, you'll encounter four titles to choose from: Questions 2 and 3 pertain to descriptive writing, while Questions 4 and 5 revolve around narrative writing. Each option carries a 40-mark value, and you're required to pick only one (either descriptive or narrative). Despite the overlap between descriptive and narrative writing, it's essential to recognize their distinctiveness and tailor your responses accordingly. Therefore, carefully assess all four choices before determining which one will best showcase your writing abilities.
The subsequent guide aims to clarify the expectations of the narrative writing question, divided into:
- Overview
- Breaking down the question
- Exam tips
Overview
There will be a choice between two narrative writing titles or scenarios (Question 4 and Question 5). You must write around 350-450 words, which is about 2-3 sides of A4 paper in regular handwriting. You will have one hour to complete this task. Your work will be evaluated for content, structure, style, and accuracy with a potential 16 marks for content and structure, and up to 24 marks for style and accuracy. In narrative writing, your main goal is to create a compelling story.
When engaging in narrative writing, remember that your objective is to craft a convincing narrative. Allocate 15 minutes to select your task and plan your writing, and dedicate 45 minutes to writing your response (including 5 minutes at the end for reviewing and editing).
Breaking down the question
Before commencing your writing, it's crucial to thoughtfully evaluate the two question options and strategize the direction of your composition, including its conclusion. Reflect on how you can effectively employ detail to be persuasive and innovative, and meticulously select your vocabulary and sentence structures to achieve particular effects.
The examples below are a selection of past CIE narrative writing tasks:
Exam Tips
- Ensure your response is well-structured and thoughtful for the chosen title.
- Demonstrate your skill in crafting a narrative with moments of tension and drama.
- Utilize character development to form believable protagonists and characters.
- Avoid using cliches or overly familiar storylines like abandoned cabins in the woods.
- Avoid simply narrating a sequence of events; explore creative ways to narrate your story beyond a mere timeline.
- Include the thoughts and emotions of your characters, not just their actions.
- Avoid unnecessary complexity in language; simple words and sentences can have a powerful impact.
- Begin your story from its primary setting, rather than focusing on the journey or buildup.
- Choose your words carefully to enhance the desired atmosphere and overall effect of your story.
- Vary the lengths of your sentences and paragraphs to maintain a dynamic style and tone.
- Use dialogue sparingly, ensuring it advances the plot and is punctuated correctly.
- Consider the underlying message of your story and how your characters embody this message.
- Choose a narrative perspective that best suits the effectiveness of your story.
