Doubling the action in 11 Plus story writing.

In an 11 Plus writing exam, time pressure can curtail even the most confident writers. 

What may seem like an action-packed and exciting story in a child’s head may not make it to the page. 

Often, the action that keeps the story moving doesn’t have enough ... well ... ACTION! 

There are many ways to create high-level writing using action, so here’s an easy-to-remember top tip, along with a few challenges to have a go at.

Skill: Double the action in just one sentence. 

Link 2 actions together to help the reader to sequence events.

Think: Every time I write about an action, add the following linked action to the same sentence.

Example.

One action

She sprinted towards the beast.

Two actions

She sprinted towards the beast and bared her teeth in anger.

Challenge 

Turn these ‘one action’ sentences into ‘two action’ sentences.

Remember, the second action must move the story forward and give the reader more details.

1. He grasped the sword AND …
2. Hesitating, she scanned the room AND …
3. Without reason, the beast catapulted into the air, ...

I hope you find this helpful to up-level your story action!

Anna