Comprehensive 5-Week Narrative Unit: Teaching Storm Boy by Colin Thiele (NSW DET Stage 3)

Unit Overview
In this unit, students will develop a deep understanding of narrative techniques, drawing inspiration from Storm Boy by Colin Thiele. Through this immersive resource, students will explore the essential components of narrative structure—setting, characterisation, and plot development—while also recognising when these conventions are subverted. The unit encourages students to connect the text to their own lived experiences, enriching their personal engagement and understanding of narrative storytelling.

Purpose & Learning Intentions
In this unit, students will:

• Identify and understand key features of narrative orientation, including the role of setting, characters, and action in shaping a compelling story.
• Analyse and recreate text using language features that enhance the reader’s understanding of characters and settings.
• Understand the narrative structure, identifying rising action and how tension builds toward a subverted resolution.
• Create a sequel to Storm Boy, applying their knowledge of narrative conventions and characterisation to craft their own engaging narrative.

Through exploration of Storm Boy, students will also develop skills in language analysis, including identifying figurative language, subjective language, modal words, and the use of temporal connectives. They'll learn how to structure a narrative that builds tension and enriches character development through dialogue and descriptive language.

Success Criteria
By the end of the unit, students will be able to:

• Recognise and describe key features and patterns of narratives.
• Visualise characters and settings using evidence from the text.
• Write descriptive settings that utilise figurative language to engage the reader.
• Write character summaries that bring characters to life with figurative language.
• Identify and use narrative devices, including dialogue, foreshadowing, and subverted patterns.
• Build suspense and tension using modal words and adjectives.
• Use connections to personal and shared experiences to enrich their understanding of the text and characters.
• Create a well-structured sequel, ensuring that the narrative flows and builds tension appropriately.
• Revise and edit their writing with attention to detail, using agreed-upon criteria.

Differentiation & Reflection
This resource encourages teachers to reflect on student engagement and adjust lessons as needed to support diverse learning needs. Differentiation is embedded within the unit, providing opportunities for extension, scaffolding, and individualised support.

Supporting Resources
The unit includes a Google Slides presentation and an editable PowerPoint, making it easy to implement in your classroom. These resources guide your students through the process of understanding narrative features and creating their own sequel to Storm Boy, providing interactive and engaging opportunities for learning.

Important Notes for Teachers
While Storm Boy is a cherished text, please be aware that certain language used to describe Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples is outdated and offensive. This language was common when the book was originally published but no longer reflects contemporary standards of respect. It is important to guide students through this content sensitively and thoughtfully.

Stand Out in Your Classroom
This comprehensive resource will help your students shine in understanding narrative conventions, creating complex characters, and writing engaging narratives. The combination of creative activities, robust analysis, and practical applications ensures that your students will have everything they need to succeed—and you will be equipped with the perfect teaching materials to guide them.

Attribution is given to: © State of New South Wales (Department of Education), 2023.