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Dialogue and Reporting Verbs

The document explores the significance of dialogue and reporting verbs in character development and storytelling. It emphasizes how dialogue creates conflict, reveals relationships, and adds humor, while reporting verbs enhance the emotional depth and atmosphere of the narrative. The text encourages writers to experiment with verb choices to enrich their characters and engage readers more effectively.

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9 views13 pages

Dialogue and Reporting Verbs

The document explores the significance of dialogue and reporting verbs in character development and storytelling. It emphasizes how dialogue creates conflict, reveals relationships, and adds humor, while reporting verbs enhance the emotional depth and atmosphere of the narrative. The text encourages writers to experiment with verb choices to enrich their characters and engage readers more effectively.

Uploaded by

bhoneheinhtet.total
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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the power of

dialogue
and verbs
as storytellers
Identify and evaluate the effects of
let’s set the figurativspeech in writing

objectives Apply knowledge of


Analyse how dialogue and reporting dialogue, reporting verbs,
verbs contribute to character and figurative speech in
development and voice creative writing tasks
Today, we'll delve into the fascinating
world of character development and
explore how two key ingredients work
their magic: dialogue and reporting
verbs. Get ready to see how these
elements breathe life into characters,
turning them from names on a page
into individuals we laugh with, cry with,
and root for!
ou rea y
re
a y d ?
The Power of
DialogueCreating conflict and tension: Dialogue drives
the plot forward.
Adding humor and emotion: Makes characters
Characters talk relatable and engaging. ing: Shows personality, thoughts, and motivations.
Revealing relationships: Dynamics between
characters come alive.

imagine a story without conversation - flat, right? Dialogue allows characters to speak for themselves, revealing their unique voices, personalities, and even
hidden thoughts. Through their words, we witness their relationships blossom or clash, understand their desires and fears, and truly connect with them as

reporting verbs
individuals. Remember that epic movie scene where a witty remark lands you in stitches? Or a heartfelt confession that brings tears to your eyes? That's the
power of dialogue in action!

w
hispered
snarled exclaimed
Describe actions and reactions: Go beyond "said" to paint a vivid picture.
Show character traits:"Scoffed" reveals arrogance,"beamed" radiates joy.
Create atmosphere and tension:"Whispered urgently" builds suspense.
Control the pace of the story:"Screamed in panic" speeds things up.
Don't underestimate the mighty reporting verb! While
dialogue delivers the "what," reporting verbs tell us
the "how." They describe not just the words spoken,
but the way they are spoken. Did your character
"mutter dejectedly" or "shout triumphantly"? These
verbs paint a vivid picture of their emotions, body
language, and even the surrounding atmosphere. Think
of them as stage directions for your characters,
bringing their actions and reactions to life with flair!
Identifying Reporting Verbs in Action

Look for verbs before or after dialogue: Don't confuse them with regular verbs:
"She whispered," "He roared," etc. "Said" is often not a reporting verb.

Focus on verbs that describe


actions: "Shrugged," "nodded,"
"grinned," etc.
Ready to put your detective skills to the test?
Identifying reporting verbs is like hunting for
treasure in a story. Look for those action-packed
verbs before or after the dialogue that tell you more
than just who spoke. Remember,"said" isn't always
your culprit - explore alternatives like "murmured,"
"declared," or "pleaded" to truly add depth and
detail. With a little practice, you'll become a verb
spotting pro, unlocking even more layers of
character development!

labeled "Effective" "Less Effective" with


ef ective and examples of dialogue
Image: Two columns and reporting verbs.
Do the verbs add depth and vs."Said sadly." Do they
s
personality? "Shouted contribute to the overall tone
furiously" vs."Said angrily." Do and atmosphere? "Whispered Les effective
they create a clear image in your urgently" vs."Spoke quietly."
mind? "Sighed dramatically"
Now comes the critical thinking part! Let's analyze the
impact of reporting verbs on character development.
Compare different options and ask yourself: "Does
this verb choice truly capture the character's essence
and emotions?" Remember, stronger verbs can paint a
much richer picture than their weaker counterparts.
For example,"snarled angrily" conveys more intensity
than just "said angrily." So, be a verb critic and

Unleash Your
choose wisely!
Inner Wordsmith! Experiment with
different
reporting verbs: Go beyond "said" and explore
the possibilities.
Read your work
aloud:
Does it sound
right?
thank you
see you again!

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