5.2.6.2.2 Explanation of Narrative tool

Is the generator of the narrative a credible or appropriate source?

It is important to establish the legitimacy of the narrator as part of assessing the degree to which the narrative is authentic. Ask:

– Is this a first- hand account of an event?

– Do you sense that the author is both a credible and appropriate narrator?

Is the relationship between the text and its context explained?

Narrative always describes an event that occurs within a specific time and space; within a context. The relationship between the characters and the place in which the event occurs needs to be described. Ask:

– Where does the event take place?

– Who does it involve?

– What occurs?

Does the narrative present the events using a logical sequence so the reader or listener can understand how it unfolds?

A narrative seeks to convince a reader; this, in assessing this narrative, the reviewer should ‘follow’ the narrative and its meanings. Ask:

– Can I ‘imagine’ the event, the characters involved and what happened?

– Does the ‘story’ or the account flow in a logical way?

Do you, as reader or listener of the narrative, arrive at similar conclusions to those drawn by the narrator?

Again, note the purpose of narrative to persuade or convince. Ask:

– Are the conclusions drawn from the description of the event?

– Are any seemingly causal relationships explained?

– Do you draw similar conclusion from the narrative as the narrator?

Do the conclusions flow from the narrative account?

Again, note the purpose of narrative to persuade or convince. Ask:

– Are the conclusions drawn from the description of the event?

Do you consider this account to be a narrative?

In appraising the authenticity of the narrative, can you differentiate between the emotional persuasiveness of the ‘story’ with the objective accuracy of the narrative? Ask:

– What is the degree of narrativity in this piece?