Writing Better Stories
![Better Stories Part 1: The Big Idea](https://d1nnc1eznq71gb.cloudfront.net/uploads/20221128162343/narratives-01-redo2do-300x169.png)
Part 1: Better Stories Part 1: The Big Idea
We open our unit on narrative writing with a big idea: "structure increases creativity." I show how this is true by bringing in examples from across all disciplines.
![Better Stories Part 2: Types of Conflict](https://d1nnc1eznq71gb.cloudfront.net/uploads/20221128173604/conflict-2-redo-300x169.png)
Part 2: Better Stories Part 2: Types of Conflict
If your students' stories are packed with endless ninja fights or arguments between frenemies, it's time to expose them to a wider range of conflicts.
![Better Stories Part 3: Literary Themes](https://d1nnc1eznq71gb.cloudfront.net/uploads/20221130172309/Narratives-titles-themes-300x169.png)
Part 3: Better Stories Part 3: Literary Themes
A typical student narrative includes plot and characters but lacks a larger idea to hold it all together. This is where a lesson on themes comes in…
![Better Stories Part 4: Character Archetypes](https://d1nnc1eznq71gb.cloudfront.net/uploads/20221130172822/archetype-title-300x169.png)
Part 4: Better Stories Part 4: Character Archetypes
Are students' characters a bit flat? Archetypes give them a strong foundation on which to build their own characters as well as a tool to analyze existing stories.
![Better Stories Part 5: Plot Structure](https://d1nnc1eznq71gb.cloudfront.net/uploads/20221130173147/plot-title-300x169.png)
Part 5: Better Stories Part 5: Plot Structure
Ever read a student's story that was just event after event after event and then a very sudden ending? They lack an understanding of a plot's structure. With the help of Finding Nemo, I break down how to set up a well-structured plot.