Does anyone have a list of ways to start a story?

"once upon a time..." is getting old

I am trying to remember but could use some help.
Thanks!

[iluv2nd]

My second graders and I looked at picture books and came up with four easy ways to start a story...

1. The main character says something to lead into the problem of the story... "Where did my fangs go!" exclaimed the vampire.

2. Describe the main character... The vampire had long, sharp teeth. His skin was pale and he wore a black cape.

3. Describe when the story happens... Every Halloween the vampire...

4. Describe where the story happens... The vampire lived in the abandoned house at the end of the block. All the windows were broken and bats flew around the chimney every night...

These were ideas we discovered that authors we loved used. Other ideas include:

-start with a list of adjectives to describe the setting or character...

-start with a question

-start like familiar poem or story

Check out this web site for great lessons for teaching narrative, expository and persuasive writing.

http://www.springfield.k12.il.us/res...g/isatwrit.htm

[Peggy]

To get going at the beginning, I have kids practice starting with a question, dialogue, sound, thought, action. I have a great resource (pdf) that goes with this, if you want to e mail me

THIS COMES FROM THE BOOK...6 +1 Writing Traits. We use this writing program for our students. Here are some ideas for beginnings...

Brilliant Beginnings
A thought–provoking question to make the reader wonder –Why are lions such good hunters?
A little “peek” at the problem or conclusion to pique the reader’s interest – I couldn’t go back to school and face Mrs. Roberts
A funny line or personal anecdote to set a humorous or individual tone - My mother always told me not to feed the dog table food but I didn’t listen.
Make something happen – “For the last time,” he yelled, “get over here!”
Fascinating facts – The tallest building in Washington D.C. is the Washington Monument
A dramatic, sweeping, or eye-opening statement – A cheetah is so fast it could pass your car on a highway.

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thanks,
edward cullen

I would love your pdf list you mentioned, to help my child write better.

Thanks
Evie R.