To prepare for drafting their Common Application narrative, class members return to the opening pages of The Autobiography of Malcolm X and examine how Haley engages and orients readers, establishes his narrator and point of view, and sets out the problem or situation. Using Haley's techniques as a model, writers then begin their drafts.

Concepts

narrative structure, Narrative Writing, personal narratives

Show More Show Less

Additional Tags

english language arts

Show More Show Less

Instructional Ideas

• Rather than having individuals address all three aspects of the writing prompt, divide the class into groups of three; assign one element of the prompt to each member, i.e., how does Haley (1) engage and orient the reader by setting out a problem, situation, or observation and its significance; (2) establish one or multiple point(s) of view; and (3) introduce a narrator and/or characters?

Classroom Considerations

• The sixth in a 28-lesson narrative writing unit that uses The Autobiography of Malcolm X as a model that writers may use for their Common Application Narrative

Pros

• The 11-page packet includes a detailed plan, discussion questions, and sample responses, as well as a homework assignment
• Designed for Common Core

Cons

• None

Common Core

RL.11-12.4 W.11-12.3.a W.11-12.5