The Monkey's Paw Narrative Writing Worksheet

Welcome! This worksheet will help you explore narrative writing using "The Monkey's Paw" as an example. Take your time and don't worry about perfect answers - just do your best!

Part 1: Understanding the Story

1. Who are the main characters in "The Monkey's Paw"?

List at least three characters and write one sentence about each:

  1. ____________________________: __________________________________________
  2. ____________________________: __________________________________________
  3. ____________________________: __________________________________________

Hint: Think about who the story focuses on and who makes important decisions.

2. What is the main conflict in the story?

Describe the main problem or challenge in 2-3 sentences:

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Hint: What causes trouble for the characters? What do they struggle with?

Part 2: Exploring Narrative Elements

3. Setting

Where and when does the story take place? How does the setting affect the mood?

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Hint: Think about the time period, location, and atmosphere of the story.

4. Point of View

Who is telling the story? Is it a character in the story or an outside narrator?

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Hint: Look for words like "I," "we," or "he/she" to help you figure this out.

Part 3: Your Turn to Write!

5. Create a New Wish

Imagine you found the monkey's paw. What would you wish for? Write a short paragraph (3-5 sentences) describing your wish and what happens when it comes true.

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Hint: Remember, be careful what you wish for! Think about unexpected consequences.

6. Dialogue Practice

Write a short conversation (4-6 lines) between two characters discussing whether or not to use the monkey's paw. Use quotation marks for the dialogue.

Character 1: "______________________________________________________________"

Character 2: "______________________________________________________________"

Character 1: "______________________________________________________________"

Character 2: "______________________________________________________________"

Character 1: "______________________________________________________________"

Character 2: "______________________________________________________________"

Hint: Think about how each character might feel differently about using the paw.

Reflection

7. What did you learn?

Write down one thing you learned about narrative writing from this worksheet:

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