OLNA Writing: Narrative Writing Techniques

Question 1

Which structure best describes a typical narrative?

Accepted Answer

Orientation, complication, rising action, climax, resolution

Answer

A narrative introduces the characters and setting (orientation), adds a problem (complication), builds tension to a climax and then resolves it. The other options are structures for persuasive, scientific or report writing.

Question 2

Which sentence best shows a character's nervousness instead of telling the reader about it?

Accepted Answer

Mia's hands trembled as she twisted the hem of her shirt.

Answer

'Show, don't tell' means using actions and physical details to reveal a feeling. Trembling hands and fidgeting show nervousness without naming the emotion.

Question 3

What is the main purpose of the orientation in a narrative?

Accepted Answer

To introduce the characters, setting and situation

Answer

The orientation sets the scene. It tells the reader who is involved, where and when the story happens, and what the situation is before the complication arrives.

Question 4

Which opening sentence is most likely to hook a reader into a narrative?

Accepted Answer

The phone rang at 3 a.m., and Sam already knew who it was.

Answer

An engaging opening creates suspense or curiosity straight away. A late-night phone call that Sam is expecting raises questions the reader wants answered.

Question 5

A writer describes 'the wind howled like a wounded animal.' Which language device is this?

Accepted Answer

Simile

Answer

A simile compares two things using 'like' or 'as'. Here the wind is compared to a wounded animal.

OLNA - Online Literacy and Numeracy Assessment Practice Test

OLNA - Online Literacy and Numeracy Assessment Practice Test

OLNA Writing: Narrative Writing Techniques