Markos Writing Tools Organization Create a prewriting list

Marko’s Writing Tools

Organization • Create a prewriting list of events in chronological order (the order in which events happened). • Include a clear beginning in which you identify the characters, setting, and main idea of the story. • Provide details of the story in the middle. • Offer a conclusion to the narrative in the end.

Hook Get your reader’s attention through • Action • A word picture describing the setting • Dialogue • An interesting question or fact

Transitions Make sure your sentences flow together (making “tasty” sentences). For examples, visit www. markothepencil. com

Colorful Words Paint a picture by • Using the five senses: sight, sound, taste, touch, and smell (imagery) • Using a thesaurus to add vivid verbs and adjectives (Make sure you know what the words mean. ) • Cutting out slang, foul language, abbreviations, and “R. I. P. ” words (cuz, good, bad, w/ …)

Personification A non-human thing is given human qualities.

Dialogue Use dialogue to make your characters come alive. • Make sure that you start a new line for each new character speaking. • Use words other than said to help your reader hear the true voice of your character.

Simile & Metaphor Simile – a comparison (of two unlike things) using like or as. Metaphor – comparison (of two unlike things) without using like or as.

Onomatopoeia Use of a word indicating a sound

Alliteration Repetition of a beginning sound

Lasting Impression Include an ending that leaves your reader satisfied. • Reflect on what has happened to you. • Suggest something for the reader to think about or do. • End with a creative description. • Repeat your main point. • Give a “so what”. Why is this story/essay important?

Editing and Proofing • Read your paper for stylistic changes. Are the words and sentences varied? • Check your paper formatting, spelling, punctuation, and grammar issues. • Do your pronouns have clear antecedents? For a full checklist, visit www. markothepencil. com