* Learning Goal
Strong stories do not start with random events. Plan the character, setting, and problem before writing.
1 Story Planner
Fill in the story map before you write.
Example idea: a student · the school roof after a storm · a class pet disappears · searching clues around school
How the character tries to solve it
2 Dialogue Practice
Write one line of dialogue the character might say when the problem begins.
3 Write the Story
Write a beginning, middle, and ending. Make sure the ending connects to the problem.
✦ SBA-Style Reflection
Answer using evidence from your work above. On the state test (Smarter Balanced), you will need to explain your thinking clearly.
Constructed Response: Look at your answers above. Choose one and explain how you decided on your answer. Use at least one detail or example.