Tense in narrative
In this resource we will practise using tense consistently and think about the effect of using past tense versus present tense in a story.
Goals
- Identify past tense and present tense forms.
- Practise changing tense and using tense consistently.
- Consider the effect of changing tense in a story.
Lesson Plan
Background
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Tense in narrative: Activity 1
Activity 1: Tense consistency
Look at the following short passages. For each one, identify where the tense changes incorrectly, and then write a correct version which continues with the tense used at the start of the passage.
Tense in narrative: Activity 2
Activity 2: Past to present
The following extract uses past tense narration. Rewrite the extract, changing to present tense narration throughout. Take care to be consistent.
The dread came from nowhere. Without warning, my flesh began to crawl. I felt the hairs on my scalp prickle and rise. I couldn't see anything except the bear post and its cairn of stones, but my body braced itself. It knew.
Tense in narrative: Activity 3
Activity 3: Present to past
Now try reversing the process. This extract uses present tense narration, so rewrite it using past tense narration.
Panting, I fight my way out of the sleeping bag. The torch slips from my fingers and blinks out. Whimpering, I fall to my knees and grope for it. I can't find it. Can't see my hands in front of my face.
Again, compare the two versions. Does the change of tense have an effect?