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Narrative - GCSE English Language Definition

Reviewed by: Deb Orrock

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In GCSE English, a narrative is simply a story. It usually follows a clear structure, with a beginning, middle, and end, and includes characters, a setting, and a plot. Narratives can be found in books, films, or plays and are used to share a message or theme with the reader or audience. Writers often use techniques like foreshadowing (giving hints about what might happen), flashbacks (going back to an earlier event), and dialogue (characters speaking) to make the narrative more interesting. Understanding how narratives work helps when you're analysing texts in class or creating your own in an exam.

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Deb Orrock

Reviewer: Deb Orrock

Expertise: English Content Creator

Deb is a graduate of Lancaster University and The University of Wolverhampton. After some time travelling and a successful career in the travel industry, she re-trained in education, specialising in literacy. She has over 16 years’ experience of working in education, teaching English Literature, English Language, Functional Skills English, ESOL and on Access to HE courses. She has also held curriculum and quality manager roles, and worked with organisations on embedding literacy and numeracy into vocational curriculums. She most recently managed a post-16 English curriculum as well as writing educational content and resources.

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