WRT-M-05 Scenic Writing Construction Intermediate

Functional Dialogue

Dialogue that reveals character and advances plot simultaneously

The five levels

Each anchor describes what separates one level from the next — not a general description of quality. This is the text the evaluator itself reads.

Level 1 Below Standard

Dialogue carrying only information, sounds artificial

Example Two characters conversing to explain information to reader, not each other
Level 2 Approaching

Dialogue sometimes sounds natural but serves only one function

Example Reveals character or advances plot — but not both together
Level 3 At Standard

Natural dialogue serving the narrative adequately

Example Characters seem real and speak in their own way
Level 4 Above Standard

Dialogue revealing character and advancing plot together

Example Every dialogue line adds dimension to character and changes situation
Level 5 Exemplary

Dialogue carrying deep subtext — what's said and what's unsaid

Example Exchange readable on two levels: words and meaning lurking beneath

Where does your own work sit on these levels?

Submit one work to be read against this criterion alone: your position across the five levels, why you are not higher and why not lower, three literal quotes from your own work, and one exercise with its success check. Your first card is free.

Price: 7 SAR · Included in Pro & Artist Plus · First one free — Pricing details

Read my work by this criterion