Write the beginning of a short story using your current independent reading book as a model. You can use your previous book if your current book is non-fiction.

Take a close look at the beginning of your current independent reading book. How does the author use language? What is the syntax like, and what kinds of word choices are made? Where is dialogue used, and how? What images are used to create character and setting? 

Your task is to write the beginning of a short story that is modeled after the writing of the author from your independent reading. This does not mean you will be using the same language as or writing the same sentences! However, if your independent reading book begins with a paragraph of exposition that is rich with imagery and long, flowing sentences, then you had better believe that your first paragraph will be exposition that is rich with imagery and long, flowing sentences.

You should try to emulate at least the first few paragraphs of your novel (or a short story if you are reading a collection). I expect about 200-400 words.

Goals are to write the beginning of a story that introduces details such as setting, character and (possibly) conflict.
Exemplary Work creates an engaging introduction that creates vivid imagery, thoughtful dialogue, or other details that are found within the model, but presents characters, settings, and conflicts that are not found in the model.