Topic Choices:
A challenge faced by a student-athlete
How some hikers dealt with an unexpected storm
A child from a small village or town experiencing a large city for the first time
How a teenager got his town or community to do something important
Portfolio Requirements:
Must be about 1 of the 4 topics listed above
Your narrative must be your own words & ideas, 100% original
Your narrative must be at least 400 words
Your narrative must have a clear organization, starting with the exposition & ending with a resolution. It should follow the elements of a plot diagram. Click here to access a Plot Diagram to help you organize your story in your prewriting.
Title: A challenge faced by a student-athlete
Exposition: As a dedicated high school student-athlete, I have always been passionate about both academics and sports. Balancing my time between practices, games, and homework has never been easy, but I have always managed to keep up with my responsibilities. However, when a new challenge presented itself, I realized that my determination would be put to the test.
Rising Action: It was the day of the biggest basketball game of the season, and I was feeling confident and ready to lead my team to victory. As the game progressed, I noticed a sharp pain in my ankle every time I ran or jumped. Ignoring the discomfort, I pushed through the pain and continued to play. By the end of the game, we had won, but I could barely walk due to the increasing pain in my ankle.
Conflict: The next day, I went to see the team doctor and was informed that I had suffered a severe ankle sprain and would be unable to play for the rest of the season. Devastated by this news, I felt like my world had come crashing down. Basketball was not only my passion but also a way to cope with the stress of school and life in general. Without it, I felt lost and unsure of how to move forward.
Climax: Despite the setback, I refused to give up. I worked diligently with my physical therapist, following a strict rehabilitation plan to regain strength and mobility in my ankle. It was a grueling process, filled with moments of frustration and doubt, but I was determined to get back on the court and play again.
Resolution: After weeks of hard work and perseverance, I finally received clearance from the doctor to return to playing basketball. The first game back was a nerve-wracking experience, but as I stepped onto the court, I felt a rush of adrenaline and excitement. With the support of my teammates, coaches, and friends, I was able to overcome the physical and emotional challenges I faced during my recovery. Although the journey was tough, it taught me resilience, perseverance, and the importance of never giving up on my dreams.
Epilogue: The experience of overcoming this challenge as a student-athlete not only made me stronger physically but also mentally. It taught me valuable lessons that I will carry with me throughout my life, reminding me that no obstacle is too great to overcome with determination and hard work.
make another 1
Title: How a teenager got his town or community to do something important
Exposition: Growing up in a small town, I always felt a strong sense of community and pride in where I lived. However, as I got older, I noticed that there were some issues that needed attention. Determined to make a difference, I set out to get my town to address a significant problem that was affecting our community.
Rising Action: The issue at hand was the lack of a safe and accessible playground for children in our town. Many of the existing playgrounds were outdated, unsafe, and in need of repair. Recognizing the importance of having a space for children to play and socialize, I knew that I had to take action.
Conflict: I faced resistance from local officials and community members who believed that there were more pressing matters to attend to. Despite the challenges and setbacks, I remained persistent and dedicated to my cause, knowing that improving our town's playgrounds would benefit everyone in the community, especially the children.
Climax: After conducting research, gathering support from fellow teenagers, parents, and community members, and presenting a well-thought-out proposal to the town council, I was able to successfully persuade them to allocate funds for the renovation and construction of new playgrounds in our town. The victory was a turning point not only for me but also for the future generations who would benefit from having safe and inclusive play spaces.
Resolution: With the support and collaboration of volunteers, local businesses, and community organizations, we worked together to design and build new playgrounds that were accessible, engaging, and filled with opportunities for play and creativity. The project not only brought our community closer together but also instilled a sense of pride and accomplishment in knowing that we had made a positive impact on the lives of the children in our town.
Epilogue: The experience of rallying my town to address a pressing issue taught me the power of community involvement and the importance of standing up for what you believe in. It showed me that even as a teenager, I had the ability to make a difference and create positive change in my community. Moving forward, I am inspired to continue advocating for important causes and working towards a better future for all.
another1
Title: How some hikers dealt with an unexpected storm
Exposition: A group of experienced hikers set out on a weekend backpacking trip in the mountains, excited for a few days of adventure and exploration. The weather forecast predicted clear skies and mild temperatures, so they packed lightly and were prepared for a smooth journey. However, they were soon faced with a challenge they had not anticipated - an unexpected and severe storm.
Rising Action: As the hikers trekked deeper into the mountains, dark clouds began to gather overhead, and the wind picked up speed. Soon, rain started to fall, turning into a heavy downpour within minutes. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, the hikers quickly sought shelter under the cover of trees and rocks, trying to protect themselves from the elements.
Conflict: The storm worsened, with thunder and lightning adding to the already dangerous conditions. The hikers were faced with a dilemma - to stay put and wait out the storm or attempt to find a safer location to ride it out. The uncertainty and fear of the unknown loomed over them, as they were unsure of how long the storm would last and what challenges it would bring.
Climax: Despite the chaos and fear surrounding them, the hikers banded together, using their knowledge and skills to assess the situation and make informed decisions. They communicated effectively, sharing ideas and suggestions on how to stay safe and weather the storm. Through teamwork and quick thinking, they were able to secure their belongings, set up tarps for additional protection, and huddle together for warmth and support.
Resolution: After a long and harrowing night, the storm finally passed, leaving behind a scene of destruction and chaos. The hikers emerged from their makeshift shelter, exhausted but relieved to have survived the ordeal. As they assessed the damage and gathered their belongings, a sense of camaraderie and gratitude washed over them. They had faced a formidable challenge together and come out stronger and more united because of it.
Epilogue: The experience of dealing with an unexpected storm taught the hikers valuable lessons in resilience, adaptability, and the importance of preparation in the face of adversity. It reinforced the bonds of friendship and trust among them, as they had relied on each other for support and guidance during a time of crisis. Moving forward, they would carry the memories of that challenging weekend with them, serving as a reminder of their shared strength and determination in overcoming obstacles in the great outdoors.
1 more
Title: A child from a small village or town experiencing a large city for the first time
Exposition: Growing up in a small village nestled in the countryside, I had always lived a simple and peaceful life surrounded by nature and familiar faces. However, one summer, my family decided to take a trip to a bustling metropolis - a city unlike anything I had ever seen before. The prospect of experiencing the sights and sounds of a large city filled me with excitement and a hint of nervousness.
Rising Action: As we arrived in the city, I was immediately overwhelmed by the towering skyscrapers, bustling streets, and endless stream of people going about their daily lives. The noise, lights, and energy of the city were a stark contrast to the quiet and serene atmosphere of my village. Everything seemed to move at a faster pace, and I found myself struggling to keep up with the constant buzz of activity around me.
Conflict: The sheer size and complexity of the city posed a challenge for me as I navigated the crowded sidewalks, busy intersections, and unfamiliar surroundings. I felt lost and out of place, longing for the simplicity and familiarity of my village. The sensory overload and fast-paced lifestyle of the city left me feeling isolated and overwhelmed, unsure of how to make sense of it all.
Climax: Despite my initial apprehension, I slowly began to adapt and explore the city with curiosity and open-mindedness. I visited iconic landmarks, sampled new cuisines, and interacted with people from diverse backgrounds, expanding my horizons and challenging my preconceptions. Each new experience filled me with wonder and awe, opening my eyes to the beauty and complexity of urban life.
Resolution: By the end of our trip, I had gained a newfound appreciation for the city's vibrancy, diversity, and opportunities. I had overcome my fears and discomfort, embracing the challenges and rewards of immersing myself in a new and unfamiliar environment. The experience had broadened my perspective, teaching me to embrace change, adapt to new situations, and find joy in the unexpected.
Epilogue: The journey from my small village to the big city had been a transformative experience, shaping my view of the world and my place in it. It had taught me the value of stepping outside my comfort zone, seeking out new experiences, and embracing the unknown with courage and curiosity. As I returned home, I carried with me memories and lessons that would stay with me forever, reminding me of the beauty and diversity that exists beyond the boundaries of my familiar surroundings.
rewrite all of them but like a 7th grader
Title: A kid from a little village meets the city for the first time
Once upon a time, there was a kid who lived in a tiny village surrounded by fields and trees. One day, their family decided to take a trip to a huge city full of tall buildings and lots of people. The kid was super excited but also a little nervous about what they would find in this big, bustling city.
As they arrived in the city, the kid's eyes widened at the huge skyscrapers, noisy streets, and so many people walking by. It was all so different from the quiet and calm village they were used to. The kid felt a bit lost and out of place in the city's fast-paced world. It seemed like everyone was rushing around, and they weren't sure how to keep up.
Trying to figure out where to go and how to get around became a big challenge for the kid. With so many people, cars, and noises, it was hard to navigate the crowded streets and busy intersections. They missed the quiet and simplicity of their village, and the city felt overwhelming and unfamiliar.
But as time passed, the kid started to explore the city with open eyes and a curious mind. They visited famous places, tasted new foods, and met people from different backgrounds. Each new adventure brought excitement and a sense of wonder, helping them see the city in a new light. Slowly, the big city didn't feel so scary anymore.
By the end of their trip, the kid had learned so much and was grateful for all the new experiences. Even though the city was loud and fast, they realized that it was also full of interesting things to see and do. Stepping out of their comfort zone had led to amazing discoveries and memories that would stay with them forever.
As they returned home to their village, the kid carried with them the lessons and joys of their city adventure. They now saw the world in a bigger and more colorful way, understanding that there's beauty and excitement beyond the familiar sights and sounds of their small village.