Earlier, we took a target structure and then brainstormed natural reactions to it.  We can also reverse the process. Above we STARTED with “I need to tell you something.” and looked for the reaction. What if “I need to tell you something” WAS THE REACTION?!

What could have happened that caused Earl to say. “I need to tell you something.” ?

Earl’s teacher forgot to wear pants….so
Earl found a million dollars….so
Earl decided to leave his job…..so
Earl crashed his father’s car…so
Earl asked two girls to the dance…..so
(all actions ..DO)

Earl said ” I need to tell you something.” (SAY)

Look how beautifully and naturally a structure about FEELing would fit into any of the scenarios above: is embarrassed, is afraid, is nervous etc.

“wants to eat” works the same way. What has to happen so that “wants to eat” is a natural reaction?

Earl sees a McDonald’s commercial…so
Mary has a huge bag of candy….and
Earl’s mom makes liver for dinner, but
Earl just got braces …and

Earl “wants to eat”______________.

with love,
Laurie