Dialogue Only Story Challenge
Write a story using ONLY dialogue — no narration, no 'he said' — forcing characters to reveal everything through what they say to each other.
What You'll Need
- 1Paper or notebook
- 2Pencil or pen
What You'll Need
Paper or notebook
Pencil or pen
How to Play
Challenge: a story using ONLY dialogue. No narration.
Read an example dialogue-only scene together.
Discuss how dialogue reveals character, emotion, and plot.
Choose a scenario: mysterious map, sibling argument, life-changing phone call.
Plan characters and conflict.
Write as dialogue lines, one per line, alternating speakers.
Read aloud with two people as characters. Does it work?
Revise unclear parts.
Tips
This constraint teaches what dialogue DOES in a story: it reveals character personality, advances the plot, creates tension, and conveys emotion. When dialogue is the only tool available, your child discovers its full power.
The challenge of conveying action through dialogue is fascinating: "Why are you climbing on the table?" tells the reader what's happening without narration. Kids figure this out quickly and creatively.
Each character needs a distinct voice. If you cover the names, can you still tell who's talking? That's the mark of well-written dialogue.
Reading the story aloud with two people is essential — it immediately reveals whether the dialogue feels natural or stilted.
This format works well for kids who resist long writing. Dialogue-only stories can be short, punchy, and feel more like writing a play or screenplay than an essay.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does this activity take?
This activity takes about 30 min, with 5 min of preparation time beforehand.
What materials do I need?
You'll need: paper or notebook, pencil or pen.
What age is this activity for?
This activity is designed for 8-12 years. You can adapt it for younger or older children by adjusting the complexity.
Can this be done indoors?
This activity is designed for indoor play, making it perfect for rainy days or when you're staying inside.
How difficult is this activity?
This is a more challenging activity that may require advance preparation, special materials, or closer supervision. The extra effort is worth it for the learning experience!
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