California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) English Practice Exam

In a narrative essay, how should the events of the story typically unfold?

1. With a clear conclusion

2. In a linear fashion

3. Showing change in action and the passage of time

4. With flashbacks only

The correct answer is: Showing change in action and the passage of time

In a narrative essay, the events of the story typically unfold by showing change in action and the passage of time. This means that the narrative not only describes what happens but also focuses on how characters and situations evolve throughout the story. By highlighting changes, the essay conveys growth, development, or transformation, which are central themes in many narrative works. This approach allows readers to engage with the various aspects of the narrative, including character emotions, experiences, and the implications of those changes on the overall storyline. A strong narrative often weaves these elements together, showcasing not just events, but their significance in the context of the characters' journeys. Other options, although they might represent aspects of storytelling, do not encompass the full scope of how narratives effectively convey emotions and themes. For example, a linear fashion may structure the story straightforwardly, but it doesn't necessarily capture the complexity of evolving experiences. A clear conclusion is essential for wrapping up narratives, but it isn't a method for how events unfold during the story. Meanwhile, relying solely on flashbacks limits the narrative's progression and may disrupt the flow without demonstrating the overall changes that occur in the plot and characters.