SUMMARY: An interactive class taking the key elements of a plot structure and using them as a springboard for students to come up with their own suggestions and so creating an original story there and then.
Year Groups: The class is adaptable for all ages and year groups across KS3, KS4, and KS5.
Main Take-away: How imagination and the mechanics of story can work hand in hand in the creative process.
The ‘How to Make a Story...’ class first makes a distinction between ‘story’ and ‘plot’. Following on from this, the key elements of a plot structure – ‘Day of Change’, ‘Trigger for Action’, ‘The Plan’, ‘Time of Despair’, ‘Supreme Ordeal’, ‘Impossible Choice’, ‘Reverse Identity’, ‘Battle’, ‘Irreversible Climax’, and ‘Resolution’ – are identified, explained, and illustrated with examples. Next, these fundamental elements of plot are used as a springboard for students to come up with their own suggestions, and so create an original story.
Post-workshop: Steve puts together a summary of the skeleton plot originated during the class, and with it makes suggestions as to how students might develop the tale in their own creative writing. The essential primer to plot structure, as set out in the class (the 21 Story Steps Guide), is then passed on to teachers, offering them the option of using it in further classwork. This manual is supported by a PowerPoint guide that offers examples and illustrations.
“We were delighted to celebrate our Year 7 and 8 students who have achieved Academic Status. As a reward for their hard work, these students enjoyed a truly inspiring session in the library with Steve Nallon, author of THE TIME THAT NEVER WAS. It was a privilege to watch our students working on story creation with such a creative mind.”
David Martin, Headteacher of Katherine Warington School, Harpenden.
“On Friday, April 25th, 2025, as Book Week at International School of Havana drew to a close, middle school students welcomed British actor and writer, for an unforgettable virtual visit. Students learned about Steve’s fascinating books – THE TIME THAT NEVER WAS, THE TIME THEY SAVED TOMORROW, and the recent DESTINATION TIME TRAVEL – all available in the library for curious explorers to discover.
“Steve captivated students with insights into the art of storytelling. He shared essential tips on crafting compelling stories, emphasizing the importance of planning, creating engaging elements, and writing in ways that challenge and hook readers. Students were inspired as Steve revealed how he approaches his writing process, offering practical strategies to ignite their own creativity.
“The highlight was a lively collaborative storytelling activity, where students teamed up with Steve to build a story from scratch. Guided by his expertise, they brainstormed characters and plot elements. This dynamic exercise demonstrated how storytelling is both an art and a fun adventure, empowering students to develop their voice and imagination. The event sparked a wave of enthusiasm for writing, reminding students that their stories matter and that with a little planning and imagination, they too can create worlds of their own. A huge thank you to Steve Nallon for such a masterclass. We all appreciated it.”
Irina González, International School of Havana, Cuba.
Student Feedback from The International School of Havana:
“I learned how to turn a blank sheet of paper into a story. The author really showed me that writing a story isn’t just imagery; it’s mindful.”
“I liked the way he spoke with such passion and confidence, and how he provided ideas to those who asked questions.”
“I think it was interesting because I had read one of his books. I liked that he talked to us because it can inspire some people to write stories. It was a very good experience.”
“What I liked about the author talk was that we created a story together. We shared our ideas. Maybe, as feedback, we could write down the story we made.”
“I like that he let us co-create the story of the girl that got accused of murder, but then the girl is innocent. There’s conflict. In conclusion, I liked it because he showed us how he made his books and the video meeting was very interactive.”
“I learnt how to make a mystery story.”
“It was great. He used clear language that was easy to understand.”
“The author gave us good writing advice.”
“I loved it. It was very interesting because he talked about his books and how he wrote them. My favourite part was at the end, when someone said they wanted to write a story, and the author helped him to write his story.”
“It was an interesting experience. It inspired me to start reading and writing stories.”
“I enjoyed it. He was skilful and knowledgeable. I learnt a lot from him.”
“I really enjoyed this author talk, and I think it was really well done. I found that the fact that he had planned what he was going to say was good. Make sure that the next talk is similar in that way.”
“I learned many things from Steve Nallon. I think Mr. Steve is an amazing writer.”
