Point of View
Define first-person point of view in one sentence.
The narrator is telling the story and uses the pronouns "I" or "we."
What does "direct characterization" mean?
Author tells reader directly about a character (traits, feelings).
"I'll never forgive you for this," Elena whispered through gritted teeth.
What method of characterization is this?
Speech
Which trait is being shown when a character keeps promises and shows up for friends? Name the trait and explain in one sentence.
Reliable or loyal
Identify whether this example is direct or indirect characterization: "The coach said, 'Sam is the most determined player I've ever had.'"
Direct (coach states it).
This rare point of view uses 'you' to put the reader directly inside the story — common in choose-your-own-adventure books.
What is second person?
Give an example sentence that directly tells the reader a character is brave.
teacher decides if correct
A character is described wearing worn-out shoes, a jacket two sizes too small, and a backpack held together with safety pins.
What method of characterization is this?
Looks
A character who always sits with perfect posture, dresses neatly, and never misplaces a single item.
conscientious, disciplined
Read this sentence: "The narrator knows what both Alice and Ben are thinking and tells us their thoughts." What point of view is this?
Third-person omniscient.
In this POV, the narrator knows the private thoughts, feelings, and locations of ALL characters simultaneously — an all-knowing storyteller.
What is third person omniscient?
Identify the direct characterization in this sentence: "Maria was a careful shopper who always compared prices."
"Maria was a careful shopper..."
Whenever DeShawn enters the cafeteria, students scoot over, wave him over, and save him a seat.
What method of characterization is this?
Effect on others
Every character falls silent the moment she speaks.
Intimidating, commanding
An author gives a character only one- or two-word responses throughout the entire novel. This deliberate choice in STEAL's Speech method suggests the character is this.
What is guarded, closed off, or unwilling to connect with others?
In this POV, the narrator says 'she,' 'he,' or 'they,' but can only access the thoughts and feelings of ONE character.
What is third person limited?
Which of these is a direct characterization?
C
What does the acronym STEAL stand for?
Speech, thoughts, effect on others, actions, looks
"I hope nobody notices I forgot my lines," she thought, smoothing her costume with trembling hands.
nervous, self-conscious
In this POV, the narrator says 'she,' 'he,' or 'they,' but can only access the thoughts and feelings of ONE character.
Third Person Limited
"I watched the waves and felt my heart tighten as I remembered the promise." Which point of view is this, and explain the evidence in the sentence.
narrator uses "I" and gives personal feeling.
Explain why direct characterization is useful for the reader.
Useful because it gives clear, quick information about a character.
Read this example: "Liam offered his sandwich to the new student without being asked." Which STEAL element is this and what trait does it show?
Action; generous, kind
This adjective describes a character who is very careful and pays great attention to detail, often in a hardworking way.
conscientious
"She stayed late helping clean up the science lab so others wouldn't get in trouble" — name two character traits this shows and explain each with one sentence.
diligent, thoughtful