Narrative technique — English definition
A tool writers use to tell a story effectively, such as dialogue, description, or pacing.
Where it is taught
- Narrative Techniques — Narrative, Memoir & Revision, English 8: Trust, Community & Responsibility, Grade 8
Questions using narrative technique
Problem 1
Which sentence uses a narrative technique to SHOW fear rather than simply tell it?
- Her flashlight beam shook as it swept across the empty hallway.
- She felt very afraid in the hallway.
- The hallway was dark and she was scared.
- Fear filled her completely as she walked.
Answer and explanation
Her flashlight beam shook as it swept across the empty hallway.
Describing the shaking flashlight beam shows fear through concrete physical detail rather than naming the emotion directly.