Narrative Writing: What the Question is Asking (Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE English Language)

Revision Note

Deb Orrock

Written by: Deb Orrock

Reviewed by: Kate Lee

Narrative Writing: What the Question is Asking

In Section B of Paper 2, you will be given the choice of four titles: Questions 2 and 3 will be descriptive writing titles, and Questions 4 and 5 will be narrative writing titles. Each of the options is worth 40 marks and you are only required to choose one of them (either descriptive or narrative). While descriptive writing will contain elements of narration, and vice versa, it is important to be aware that there is a distinction between the two styles of writing and you must shape your responses accordingly. You should therefore consider all four choices before selecting the one you feel will best allow you to demonstrate your skills as a writer.

The following guide will help you to understand what the narrative writing question is asking.

Overview

There will be two narrative writing titles or scenarios to choose from (Question 4 and Question 5). You are required to write about 350-450 words, which is approximately 2-3 sides of A4 in standard-sized handwriting, and you will have one hour in which to do this. You will be awarded up to 16 marks for content and structure, and up to 24 marks for style and accuracy. For narrative writing, this means:

Content and structure (16 marks)

Style and accuracy (24 marks)

  • The plot is well-defined and strongly developed with features of fiction writing such as description, characterisation, effective climax and convincing details

  • The writing contains precise, well-chosen vocabulary and varied sentence structures chosen for effect

  • Language and tone are suitable for the context

  • Spelling, punctuation and grammar are almost always accurate

Remember, in narrative writing, your aim is to craft a convincing story. You should spend 15 minutes choosing your task and planning your writing, and 45 minutes writing your response (including 5 minutes at the end to re-read and check your work).

Breaking down the question

You should carefully consider the two question choices and plan your route through your composition, including how it will end, before you start writing. Consider how you can be convincing and original in your use of detail, and choose your vocabulary and sentence structures carefully to create specific effects.

The examples below are a selection of past CIE narrative writing tasks:

narrative writing title examples

Exam tips

  • Ensure that your response is a well organised and thoughtful interpretation of whichever title you choose

  • Demonstrate your ability to shape a narrative, including moments of tension and drama

  • Use characterisation to create believable protagonists and characters

  • Avoid cliches or over-used narratives, such as abandoned cabins in the woods

  • Do not just “tell” a series of events:

    • Consider imaginative ways to tell your story, apart from just a chronological account

    • Include your characters’ thoughts and feelings, not just what happens

  • Do not over-complicate your language unnecessarily:

    • Do not underestimate the power of simple words and sentences to create powerful effects

  • Start at your story’s main setting, not in the journey or build up

  • Ensure that all of the words you choose contribute to the overall atmosphere and effect you want to create

  • Vary your sentence and paragraph lengths to keep the style and tone dynamic

  • Do not over-use dialogue:

    • Only use dialogue if it drives forward the plot and you are able to punctuate it correctly

  • Consider the “message” of your story and how your characters represent this

  • Consider the narrative perspective which will work most effectively for your story

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Deb Orrock

Author: 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.

Kate Lee

Author: Kate Lee

Expertise: English and Languages Lead

Kate has over 12 years of teaching experience as a Head of English and as a private tutor. Having also worked at the exam board AQA and in educational publishing, she's been writing educational resources to support learners in their exams throughout her career. She's passionate about helping students achieve their potential by developing their literacy and exam skills.