A guide to understanding different types of writing and text types.
Reading and writing are complex skills that demand much from students. As they progress, we must assist them in going beyond grammar, punctuation, and spelling and understanding the conventions and structures of the various text types or genres.
By understanding the significance of each text type, educators can tailor their teaching strategies to meet the specific demands of different written contexts.
When students comprehend the purpose of an essay they have been assigned, they can approach it strategically and customize it to the intended audience.
Whether students are deciphering a Shakespearean sonnet, grappling with a scientific research paper, or crafting a persuasive argument, a nuanced understanding of text types will help them confidently navigate the intricacies of language.
In this article, we’ll explore the purpose of literary and factual text types. For greater insight, read the full guides attached to each type.
What are the main text types?
There are many ways to categorize the broad range of reading and writing materials we encounter daily. But, generally speaking, it’s helpful to think of them in terms of two overarching and broad categories: factual and literary.
We will discuss various sub-categories that fall under these two broad categories. It’s worth noting that different curricula might refer to text types in varying ways. For instance, a recount is also known as a personal narrative in certain regions, and there are several text types with multiple names.
FACTUAL TEXTS
ENDEAVOR TO INFORM, INSTRUCT, OR PERSUADE THROUGH THE USE OF FACTS AND INFORMATION.
LITERARY TEXTS
SEEK TO ENTERTAIN, ENLIGHTEN, OR ELICIT EMOTION THROUGH A CREATIVE USE OF LANGUAGE AND STRUCTURE.
Factual Text Types
ARGUMENTATIVE Texts
An argumentative essay is a type of writing where the author takes a stance on a particular issue or topic and presents arguments and evidence to support that position.
The primary goal is to persuade the reader to adopt the author’s viewpoint or, at the very least, to consider it seriously.
Features of Argumentative Essays:
- Clear Thesis Statement: The central idea or position the essay seeks to prove.
- Evidence-Based Arguments: Supported by facts, statistics, examples, and expert opinions.
- Counterarguments: Anticipating and addressing opposing viewpoints to strengthen the argument.
- Logical Structure: Well-organized with an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
- Persuasive Tone: Uses reasoning and rhetoric to convince the reader.
Importance in Education:
Argumentative essays are commonly assigned to students in grades three and above. They teach students to:
- Critically analyze information
- Develop a clear thesis
- Present well-structured and reasoned arguments
Applications of Argumentative Essays:
- Debates: Persuading others during discussions or competitions.
- Policy Advocacy: Supporting specific political or social policies.
- Public Discourse: Engaging in meaningful conversations about societal issues.
- Critical Thinking Development: Encouraging logical reasoning and problem-solving.
- Research: Presenting findings and arguing their significance.
- Expressing Personal Views: Sharing and defending opinions in an organized format.
Argumentative essays play a crucial role in fostering critical thinking and contributing to social and intellectual dialogue, making them an invaluable tool for learning and communication.
| Argumentative Text Overview | |
|---|---|
| Purpose: | A discussion, or Argumentative text aims to explore more than one point of view on a given subject to reach an informed opinion or to decide on an issue. |
| Structure: | Generally speaking, discussion texts will provide background information on the issue before introducing the central area or areas of contention. At this point, the text will then explore the various arguments for and against with an examination of the supporting evidence. The conclusion will summarise both sides of the argument before giving a recommendation based on the writer’s evaluation of those arguments. |
| Main Features: | The title is often in the form of a question Written in the present tense Specific examples follow generic statements Arguments are sometimes supported by diagrams, illustrations etc |
Quick Writing Activity: An effective way to lead to writing a discussion text is to hold a discussion or debate in the classroom on a contentious issue or a topic that piques the interest of your class. For example, Should video games be considered a sport? or should homeschooling replace traditional schooling due to technology?
The style of an argumentative essay is typically formal, and the tone is persuasive. The writer should aim to engage the reader and convey the issue’s importance.
Biographies
Biographies are written accounts of people’s lives, offering a comprehensive and detailed narrativBiographies are written accounts of people’s lives, providing a comprehensive and detailed narrative of their experiences, achievements, and societal impact.
These works offer valuable insights into an individual’s character, contributions, and the historical or cultural context in which they lived. Biographies can take various forms, including books, articles, documentaries, or online profiles, and they play a crucial role in preserving and sharing the stories of notable individuals.
Examples of Biographies:
- “The Diary of Anne Frank” by Anne Frank
- “Steve Jobs” by Walter Isaacson
- “The Wright Brothers” by David McCullough
Importance of Biographies:
Biographies are essential for:
- Documenting Lives: They preserve the stories of influential individuals, ensuring their legacies endure.
- Inspiring Readers: By recounting tales of human achievement and resilience, biographies motivate and encourage readers.
- Providing Context: They help readers understand the historical, social, and cultural forces that shaped an individual’s life.
Whether recounting the life of a historical figure, a cultural icon, or a groundbreaking innovator, biographies serve as a bridge to understanding the complexities of human experiences and contributions.
| Biographical Text Overview | |
|---|---|
| Purpose: | A biography is an account of someone’s life written by someone else. The purpose is to provide your audience with a factual recount of significant events and insight into what type of personality traits they may have had. |
| Structure: | Biographies follow a chronological structure, detailing a person’s life from birth to significant events, accomplishments, and impact, providing a comprehensive narrative of their journey and contributions. |
| Features | Written in the past tense, depending upon the status of your person of interest. Biographies provide facts about events, dates, times, etc. (Timelines may be useful here.) Biographies are written from the third-person perspective. |
Quick Writing Activity: As a warm-up to biographical writing, Students imagine themselves as the subject of the biography and write diary entries from that person’s perspective. This activity encourages empathy, deepens understanding of the character’s emotions, and fosters creative expression while maintaining a connection to factual information.
DISCUSSIONS
A discussion essay is a type of academic writing that presents and explores different perspectives on a given topic.
Unlike an argumentative essay, where the author takes a specific stance and argues in favor of it, a discussion essay requires the writer to consider various viewpoints, analyze the strengths and weaknesses of each, and present a well-rounded view of the issue.
The goal is not necessarily to persuade the reader to adopt a particular position but to provide a comprehensive understanding of the topic.
Discussion essays are often assigned in academic settings to assess students’ ability to:
- Analyze complex issues
- Consider different perspectives
- Present a well-reasoned discussion
They are commonly found in subjects such as philosophy, sociology, and political science, where exploring diverse viewpoints is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of the topic.
| Discussions Overview | |
|---|---|
| Purpose: | The title is often in the form of a question Written in the present tense Specific examples follow generic statements Arguments are sometimes supported by diagrams, illustrations, etc The language in a discussion essay is typically formal, and the tone is objective. |
| Structure: | A discussion, or Argumentative text, aims to explore more than one point of view on a given subject to reach an informed opinion or to decide on an issue. |
| Main Features: | The title is often in the form of a question Written in the present tense Specific examples follow generic statements Arguments are sometimes supported by diagrams, illustrations etc The language in a discussion essay is typically formal, and the tone is objective. |
Quick Writing Activity: An effective way to lead to writing a discussion text is to hold a discussion or debate in the classroom on a contentious issue or a topic that piques the interest of your class. For example, Should video games be considered a sport? or should homeschooling replace traditional schooling due to technology?
The style of an argumentative essay is typically formal, and the tone is persuasive. The writer should aim to engage the reader and convey the issue’s importance.
EXPOSITORY TEXTS & Explanatory ESSAYS
Explanatory texts, also referred to as expository texts or explanatory essays, are written compositions that aim to provide detailed information, clarify concepts, or explain a specific subject in a way that is both accessible and informative to the reader.
The primary purpose of explanatory texts is to communicate factual information clearly and effectively. These texts are structured to ensure that readers gain a thorough understanding of the topic being addressed. They rely on accurate data, logical organization, and straightforward language to make the subject matter comprehensible.
Explanatory texts often include features such as:
- Headings and subheadings to organize information.
- Definitions to clarify key terms.
- Examples to illustrate concepts.
- Diagrams, charts, or images to visually support the written content.
These texts appear in a wide variety of formats, including:
- Essays that provide an in-depth exploration of a topic.
- Articles in newspapers, magazines, or online platforms, offering insights into specific issues.
- Instruction manuals that guide users on how to operate tools, devices, or systems.
- Textbooks designed to teach students about academic subjects in a systematic way.
- Reports that present findings, observations, or analyses in professional or academic settings.
Explanatory texts are widely used in both academic and professional contexts. They help readers build their knowledge and understanding of subjects ranging from science and history to technical processes and everyday tasks. By breaking down complex ideas into manageable components, explanatory texts enable effective learning and comprehension, making them an invaluable tool for communication and education.
| Explanatory Text Overview | |
|---|---|
| Purpose: | Explanatory texts move beyond straightforward descriptions to look at causes and reasons. They move beyond retelling what happened, such as in a simple report, to address the why and how of what happened. |
| Structure: | Explanatory texts usually open with a general statement that introduces the topic to be explored, such as “During the winter, some birds migrate to warmer parts of the world.” The various steps of the process are then explained in logical order. |
| Features: | Explanatory texts usually open with a general statement that introduces the topic to be explored, such as “During the winter, some birds migrate to warmer parts of the world.” The various steps of the process are then explained in logical order. |
Suggested Activity: Task students with going to the library and gathering a range of explanatory texts on various topics. In groups, students go through these texts analyzing the various features they have in common. From their findings, students draw up a detailed list of criteria they can use to write their explanatory texts later.
Information Reports
Information reports, often categorized as expository or informative writing, are compositions that present factual information on a specific topic in a clear, concise, and organized manner. These reports aim to provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of the subject, and they are commonly found in educational, scientific, and professional contexts. Information reports follow a structured format and are characterized by their focus on delivering objective information without personal opinions or biases
Examples of information reports include scientific research papers, academic reports, technical manuals, and informational articles. These reports serve the purpose of presenting information objectively, helping readers gain insights into a specific topic, and serving as a valuable resource for reference and learning.
| Informative Texts Overview | |
|---|---|
| Purpose: | The purpose of an informational text is to provide readers with information on a chosen topic by providing them with facts, most commonly in the form of an information report. |
| Structure: | Informative Writing generally opens with a definition, classification or brief description of the subject before using the body of the text to explain facts about it. These facts are organised by logical subheadings and can be supported by pictures, maps or diagrams. |
| Features | Written in the third person perspective, detached from emotive language. Specialized vocabulary and language related to the subject are used. Comparative language provides a context in areas such as size, speed and age. Frequently, the passive voice is employed. It may contain several subheadings. Often include tables, maps, diagrams, or images. |
Suggested Activity: Students will enjoy creating an information report about their favourite animal. Providing facts and information about aspects such as appearance, habitat, movement, food and life cycle. Images and Diagrams will significantly enhance the finished product.
Procedural Texts & INSTRUCTIONAL ESSAYS
Procedural texts, also referred to as procedural documents or instructional texts, are written compositions designed to provide step-by-step guidance on how to perform a specific task or achieve a particular goal.
The primary purpose of procedural texts is to inform the reader about a process, procedure, or set of instructions in a manner that is clear, concise, and easy to follow. These texts are critical for enabling individuals to complete tasks efficiently and effectively, regardless of their prior knowledge or experience with the subject.
Common Features of Procedural Texts:
- Clear Titles and Subheadings: Help identify the process or task being explained.
- Sequential Steps: Instructions are presented in chronological order to ensure logical flow.
- Numbered or Bulleted Lists: Provide clarity and make steps easy to follow.
- Action-Oriented Language: Uses imperative verbs (e.g., “mix,” “press,” “assemble”) to give direct instructions.
- Visual Aids: Diagrams, images, or charts may accompany text to enhance understanding.
- Specific Measurements or Details: Ensure precision, such as ingredient quantities in a recipe or dimensions in an assembly guide.
Examples of Procedural Texts:
- Instruction Manuals: For assembling furniture or operating machinery.
- Recipe Books: Offering step-by-step instructions for preparing dishes.
- User Guides: Explaining how to use software or electronic devices.
- Technical Documents: Providing detailed protocols for professional tasks, such as scientific experiments.
- DIY Instructions: For craft projects or home repairs.
Importance of Procedural Texts:
Procedural texts are vital in various aspects of daily life, education, and work. They simplify complex tasks by breaking them into manageable steps, ensuring accessibility for a wide audience.
By delivering information in a structured and user-friendly format, procedural texts empower individuals to successfully complete tasks or processes with minimal confusion. This makes them an indispensable resource in contexts ranging from technical fields to everyday activities like cooking or repairing household items.
| Procedural Text Overview | |
|---|---|
| Purpose: | This type of text begins with a defined objective or goal, which often forms the title. Usually, a list of resources, equipment, etc., will be included, followed by a step-by-step description of the process to achieve the desired outcome. Often, the written process is supported by diagrams and/or illustrations. Occasionally, the diagrams or illustrations may replace the written text entirely. |
| Structure: | This type of text begins with a defined objective or goal, often forming the title. Usually, a list of resources, equipment, etc., will be included, followed by a step-by-step description of the process to achieve the desired outcome. Often, the written process is supported by diagrams and/or illustrations. Occasionally, the diagrams or illustrations may replace the written text entirely. |
| Features | The title indicates the process described, e.g. How to… Includes resource/equipment list The process is described step-by-step using bullet points, numbers etc Time connectives are used to organize writing (first, next, then, finally etc.) Imperatives used Diagrams / Illustrations are used to support or replace text. |
Suggested Activity: Partner students up for this writing task. Ask the students to think of something they know how to do well. It could be anything from how to tie shoelaces to how to perform a cartwheel. It doesn’t matter what it is, as long as the student clearly understands how to do it. Students then write an explanatory text that explains how to do it. Partners swap their work with each other. They then try to perform the task exclusively following the explanation within the text. If they can’t perform the task as it’s meant to be done, then the writer needs to redraft their work until it can be done.
Persuasive Texts / OPINION WRITING
Persuasive texts cover a broad collection of opinions, and argumentative writing styles are designed to sway the reader’s opinion towards a specific viewpoint or prompt them to undertake a particular action. These texts employ language, style, and tone strategically to present compelling arguments, evidence, and reasoning, aiming to convince the audience. They are prevalent in diverse contexts, encompassing academic writing, advertising, public speeches, and opinion pieces.
Examples of persuasive texts include opinion articles in newspapers or magazines, political speeches, advertising campaigns promoting products or services, letters of recommendation, and persuasive essays within academic settings.
| Persuasive Text Overview | |
|---|---|
| Purpose: | The purpose of persuasive type texts is to convince the reader of the merits of adopting a particular viewpoint or taking a specific course of action. |
| Structure: | Beginning with an opening statement or thesis statement, persuasive texts start by summing up the viewpoint to be presented. The body paragraphs then organize, present, and elaborate on this viewpoint. A closing statement then restates and reinforces the original thesis of the text. |
| Features | Written in the simple present tense Moves from a general point to specific points Uses logical connectives (therefore, because of this, this proves that) Employs rhetorical devices Uses facts and evidence to support arguments Addresses reader directly Employs various methods of psychological persuasion |
Suggested Activity: Distribute copies of a persuasive text to students in groups. For example, this could be an advertisement or newspaper editorial. Challenge students in their groups to identify various persuasive strategies employed within the text, whether in terms of structure, presentation, visuals, or language. Students can compare and contrast their findings between groups.
Non-chronological reports
Persuasive texts encompass a wide range of writing styles and opinions, all designed to sway the reader’s perspective toward a specific viewpoint or prompt them to take a particular action.
These texts strategically employ language, style, and tone to present compelling arguments, evidence, and reasoning, with the primary goal of convincing the audience. They are widely used in various contexts, making them a versatile and impactful form of communication.
Common Features of Persuasive Texts:
- Clear Positioning: The writer clearly states their stance on an issue.
- Logical Arguments: Ideas are structured logically to build a strong case.
- Evidence-Based Support: Facts, statistics, examples, and expert opinions back up claims.
- Emotive Language: Words and phrases are chosen to appeal to the reader’s emotions.
- Rhetorical Devices: Techniques like rhetorical questions, repetition, and analogies strengthen the message.
- Call to Action (CTA): Encourages the audience to take a specific step or adopt a particular viewpoint.
Examples of Persuasive Texts:
- Opinion Articles: Published in newspapers or magazines to share views on current events or topics.
- Political Speeches: Delivered to advocate policies, inspire action, or garner support.
- Advertising Campaigns: Designed to promote products, services, or ideas.
- Letters of Recommendation: Persuade a recipient to accept or endorse an individual.
- Persuasive Essays: Found in academic settings to argue a thesis or viewpoint.
Importance of Persuasive Texts:
Persuasive writing is a critical tool in both personal and professional contexts. It enables writers to influence opinions, inspire change, and foster critical thinking in their audience. Whether used to advocate for social issues, market a product, or defend a thesis, persuasive texts are integral to effective communication and engagement.
| Non Chronological Texts Overview | |
|---|---|
| Purpose: | The purpose of non-chronological reports is to give information and detail about something that happened, but without being tied to providing a linear account in terms of time. |
| Structure: | Though non-chronological reports don’t conform to the usual chronological structure of reports, there is generally an underlying logical structure at work, albeit not temporal. Information is often grouped by category, and the report moves from a general opening statement on the topic to detailed and specific information as the report progresses. |
| Features | Often written in the present tense, third person Sometimes written in the past tense, e.g. on a historical event Frequently, the passive voice is employed Usually focused on general subjects It may contain several subheadings Dispassionate in tone May include tables, diagrams, or images |
Suggested Activity: An informational leaflet is one form of a non-chronological report. Challenge students to produce an information leaflet on something they know, such as a local attraction or historical site. When students have completed their leaflets, please encourage them to review each other’s work and offer feedback.
Recounts
Recounts are a form of writing that retells past events or experiences, focusing on informing or entertaining the reader through a detailed account of what happened.
The primary purpose of a recount is to provide a clear and engaging narrative of events, often using a chronological structure to present them in the order they occurred. Recounts can vary widely in style and tone depending on their purpose, audience, and context.
Common Features of Recounts:
- Chronological Order: Events are organized in the sequence they happened.
- Past Tense: Writing reflects the time frame of the events being recounted.
- Descriptive Details: Helps the reader visualize and understand the events.
- Personal Perspective: Often written in the first person for personal recounts but can also adopt an objective tone for news reports or historical accounts.
- Clear Structure: Includes an introduction (setting the scene), a body (the main events), and a conclusion (summarizing or reflecting on the events).
Examples of Recounts:
- Personal Narratives: Sharing personal experiences or significant life events.
- Diary Entries: Offering reflections and accounts of daily life.
- News Reports: Retelling events objectively for the purpose of informing an audience.
- Historical Retellings: Preserving and conveying information about significant past events.
- Travel Diaries: Documenting journeys and adventures with descriptive details.
Importance of Recounts:
Recounts serve various purposes:
- Sharing Personal Experiences: They allow individuals to connect with others by sharing stories that resonate.
- Preserving Memories: Documenting events ensures they are remembered and can be revisited later.
- Conveying Information: News reports and historical recounts provide factual accounts of significant events.
- Engaging and Entertaining: Well-written recounts captivate readers and transport them to the events being described.
Whether used in education, journalism, or personal expression, recounts are a valuable way to document and share the richness of human experiences.
| Recount Texts Overview | |
|---|---|
| Purpose: | Recounts focus on retelling events and are generally intended to inform and/or entertain. |
| Structure: | Most often written in the past tense as text type relates events that already happened. Time connectives are used extensively to organise chronology, e.g., first, next, after that, etc. Details are used extensively to flesh out the bare bones of the events. |
| Features | Most often written in the past tense as text type relates events that already happened. Time connectives are used extensively to organise chronology, e.g. first, then, next, after that, etc. Details are used extensively to flesh out the bare bones of the events. |
Suggested Activity: In the library, challenge students to gather as many different types of recounts as possible. In their groups, students review the various recounts and compile a list of criteria for this text type. As a whole class, the groups share their results. Encourage students to pay particular attention to the range of topics that can be presented as recounts and how this can affect the language style. For example, recounting a science experiment will use more technical and formal language than the informal and personal style that might be employed to recount a travel adventure.
Literary Text Types
Poetry
Poetry is a form of artistic expression that uses language to evoke emotions, convey images, and create a rhythmic and musical effect.
It is a genre of literature characterized by a heightened use of language, often employing techniques such as meter, rhyme, metaphor, and other literary devices. Poems vary widely in form and style, each with its own unique structure and purpose, making poetry a rich and diverse literary tradition.
Features of Poetry:
- Imagery: Vivid language that appeals to the senses.
- Emotion: Captures and conveys deep feelings and moods.
- Rhythm and Sound: Created through patterns, rhyme, and meter.
- Compact Language: Condenses meaning into few words, often leaving much to interpretation.
- Figurative Language: Uses metaphor, simile, symbolism, and personification to deepen meaning.
Examples of Poetry Forms:
- Sonnets: Structured poems with 14 lines and a specific rhyme scheme.
- Haikus: Traditional Japanese poems with a 5-7-5 syllable structure.
- Free Verse: Poetry without a fixed rhyme or meter, offering flexibility in form.
- Epic Poems: Long, narrative poems that often recount heroic tales.
Famous Poets:
Some of the most celebrated poets include:
- William Shakespeare: Renowned for his sonnets and plays.
- Emily Dickinson: Known for her introspective and innovative poetry.
- Langston Hughes: A central figure in the Harlem Renaissance, capturing themes of identity and culture.
- Maya Angelou: Celebrated for her powerful and inspirational works.
The Purpose and Impact of Poetry:
Poetry allows for the creative exploration of themes, emotions, and perspectives. Its versatility enables poets to experiment with language, form, and structure to create unique and expressive works. Poetry often reflects cultural and personal experiences, providing both a historical record and a means of personal expression.
Whether used to inspire, provoke thought, or entertain, poetry remains a vital and enduring form of human creativity.
| Poetry Overview | |
|---|---|
| Purpose: | As with all literary genres, poetry can serve various purposes. For example, poetry can be written to entertain, inform, amuse, share knowledge, pass on culture, advance culture, etc. Poetry comes in many forms; sometimes, these forms have specific purposes. For example, limericks are crafted to amuse readers, while elegies are usually written to praise or mourn someone. |
| Structure: | The different types of poetry make use of a variety of different structures. There are way too many to list here. That said, the structure of poetry usually revolves around the use of rhyme schemes, rhythmical patterns, grammatical patterns, and line and stanza length. |
| Features | As with all literary genres, poetry can serve various purposes. For example, poetry can be written to entertain, inform, amuse, share knowledge, pass on culture, advance culture, etc. Poetry comes in many forms, and sometimes, these forms have their own specific purposes. For example, limericks are crafted to amuse readers, while elegies are usually written to praise or mourn someone. |
Suggested Activity: Find an anthology of poetry that groups poems together according to themes. Task your students to look at poems exploring a common theme. Have the students look at the features these poems have in common and the features that differ. Can the students identify the different types of poems?
Narrative
A narrative is a form of writing that tells a story or recounts a series of events.
Narratives can take various forms, such as short stories, novels, autobiographies, and even some types of essays. The primary goal of a narrative is to engage the reader by presenting a compelling and coherent sequence of events that unfold over time.
Narratives use essential story elements, including:
- Characters: The people or beings driving the story.
- Setting: The time and place where the story occurs.
- Plot: The sequence of events that make up the story.
- Theme: The underlying message or central idea.
- Conflict: The problem or challenge that drives the narrative forward.
Examples of Narratives:
- Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White
- Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl
Purpose of Narratives:
Narratives aim to:
- Entertain: Captivate the audience with engaging storytelling.
- Inform: Share experiences or recount historical events.
- Convey a Message: Communicate morals, lessons, or themes through storytelling.
Through the artful arrangement of events and characters, narratives connect with readers, allowing them to explore diverse perspectives, emotions, and experiences. This makes narrative writing a timeless and powerful form of communication.
| Narrative Overview | |
|---|---|
| Purpose: | The purpose of narrative texts is to tell a story. That said, there can be many reasons for storytelling in the first place; for example, myths can be told to explain natural phenomena, and legends can be used to pass on cultural beliefs. Storytelling is a means to entertain and inform readers and allows writers to express themselves creatively and imaginatively. There are many types of narrative text, including myths, fables, traditional tales, novels, short stories, etc., to name but a few. |
| Structure: | There are many narrative text types, but broadly speaking, they all begin by establishing the setting and introducing characters. A problem or complication is introduced, which serves as the driving force behind the ensuing events. After the rising action reaches a dramatic high point or climax, a resolution is achieved, and the story ends. |
| Features | Most often written in the past or present tense Most often, it uses the third or first-person perspective Characters are often recognisably human in their motivations and actions Language is used creatively to paint a picture in the reader’s mind Storytelling may be supplemented by the use of images |
Suggested Activity: This task can be completed using novels, short stories, or even concerning movies the students are familiar with. Have the students draw an x and a y-axis on a piece of paper. Students label the x-axis time and the y-axis action. Students then plot and label the narrative’s introduction, complication, rising action, climax, and resolution. The more intense the action at each point of the story, the higher on the y-axis the point will be plotted. The points are then joined with a line. This will give the students a sense of the ‘shape’ of the story. Internalizing an understanding of this general storytelling pattern will help students immensely in their writing.
Drama
Written drama, often referred to as a play or script, is a form of literature crafted for performance on stage.
It involves the creation of characters, dialogue, and a plot structure to convey a narrative through the interactions and conflicts of the characters. Written drama combines literary artistry with performative elements, making it unique in its ability to engage both readers and live audiences.
Key Elements of Written Drama:
- Characters: The central figures who drive the action and embody the story.
- Dialogue: Conversations between characters that reveal personality, relationships, and plot.
- Conflict: The struggle or problem that propels the story forward.
- Climax: The dramatic high point where tensions reach their peak.
- Resolution: The conclusion where conflicts are resolved and outcomes are revealed.
Techniques Used in Written Drama:
- Stage Directions: Instructions for actors and directors about movement, emotion, or setting.
- Monologues: Extended speeches by a single character to reveal inner thoughts or pivotal information.
- Dramatic Tension: Created through timing, pacing, and character interactions to hold the audience’s attention.
Purpose of Written Drama:
Written drama serves to:
- Entertain: Through compelling stories and engaging performances.
- Inspire Reflection: Encouraging audiences to think about themes, relationships, or societal issues.
- Evoke Emotions: Using characters and conflicts to create empathy, excitement, or suspense.
Examples of Written Drama:
- Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare
- Death of a Salesman by Arthur Miller
- A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry
By blending literary techniques with theatrical performance, written drama offers a unique medium for storytelling, providing audiences with a rich and immersive experience.
| Drama Overview | |
|---|---|
| Purpose: | As with narrative texts, the purpose of drama is primarily to entertain through storytelling. Drama can also provide social commentary, communicate culture, amuse, and inform. While there are similarities between narrative storytelling and dramatic storytelling, drama endeavours to tell a story by enacting it on the stage, usually requiring the use of dialogue as a primary means of moving the story on. |
| Structure: | As drama is primarily concerned with storytelling, it often follows the same plot structures as other narrative forms, along with various conventions particular to this form. For example, a novel might have chapters and parts, whereas a drama has scenes and acts. Drama also has written conventions that distinguish it from prose storytelling, such as its extensive use of dialogue and occasional stage directions. |
| Features | The story is related largely through dialogue, with the page showing the characters’ names and the words they speak. Organisational information included, such as set descriptions and stage directions. Story structures common in narrative texts are also used here |
Suggested Activity: Students can explore the different conventions, similarities, and differences between prose and drama by taking a story written in a prose genre, such as a fable, short story, etc., and converting it into a script for a drama.
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In Conclusion
Understanding the various aspects of the different writing genres will help students navigate writing that serves a wide range of purposes.
It will also help students with their own text compositions. Understanding the various underlying text structures will provide students with an effective means of organizing their work, helping to ensure their writing is fit for purpose.
Exposing your students to as many different genres as possible and providing opportunities to explore how these text types operate will go a long way to helping them develop into adaptive and organized readers and writers in the future.
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