Tone & Mood
A student says, “Hey, what’s up? Want to hang out after school?”
Is the tone formal or casual?
Casual
A character appears in one scene and is described only as a greedy shopkeeper. The reader learns very little else about the character.
Is this character flat or round?
flat
What is the sequence of events in a story called?
plot
“I grabbed my backpack and ran toward the bus. I knew I would be late if I stopped to tie my shoe.”
What point of view is used?
1st person
“The warm sun shone through the windows as music played softly and friends laughed together.”
What mood does this passage create?
Happy, peaceful, or cheerful
Read the passage:
The lights flickered in the empty hallway. A door creaked open, and footsteps echoed behind the frightened girl.
What mood does this passage create?
Suspenseful, nervous, or fearful
At the beginning of the story, Marcus refuses to admit when he is wrong. By the end, he accepts responsibility for his mistakes and apologizes to others.
Is Marcus static or dynamic?
dynamic
During the first chapter, readers meet a young boy, learn that he lives in a small coastal town, and discover that he loves exploring.
What plot element is being described?
exposition
“Jenna stared at the test. She felt nervous because she had forgotten to study the final chapter. Across the room, her classmates continued writing.”
What point of view is used?
3rd person limited
A character returns a lost wallet even though no one is watching.
What character trait does this action demonstrate?
honesty
“Dear Principal Williams, I am writing to request permission to organize a school fundraiser.”
Is the tone formal or casual?
formal
Which character is most likely a flat character?
A. A girl who struggles with confidence, friendship, and family expectations.
B. A coach who is described only as strict and appears briefly.
C. A boy who changes his beliefs after a difficult experience.
D. A student who has several strengths and weaknesses.
B. A coach who is described only as strict and appears briefly.
A detective discovers a missing necklace, interviews several suspects, and finds clues that lead to a surprising discovery.
Which plot element do these events most likely represent?
rising action
“Liam worried about the championship game, while his sister secretly hoped he would lose so she could finally have the spotlight. Neither knew what the other was thinking.”
What point of view is used?
3rd person onmiscient
The main character discovers that the person they trusted has been lying to them. This discovery changes everything and leads to the story's final confrontation.
Which plot element might this event represent?
Climax
“I'm so sorry that you're going through this difficult time. Please know that I'm here if you need anything.”
Is the tone formal or sympathetic?
Sympathetic
A character is generous toward friends but jealous of their success. The character struggles with these feelings and makes difficult choices.
Is this character flat or round?
round
During a championship basketball game, the main character takes the final shot. The ball goes into the basket just as time runs out, deciding the game.
What plot element is this?
Climax
Which sentence is written in first person?
A. She hurried toward the classroom.
B. Marcus wondered whether his friend was upset.
C. I couldn't believe what had happened.
D. They waited patiently for the announcement.
C. I couldn't believe what had happened.
“I couldn't believe my luck! I had finally won the contest, and I couldn't wait to tell everyone.”
Identify the mood and point of view.
Mood: excited or joyful
Point of View: 1st person
A writer describes a devastating natural disaster using serious language and detailed descriptions of the damage. The reader feels sadness and concern.
Identify the tone and the mood.
Tone — serious
mood — sad, somber, or concerned
At the beginning of a story, Elena is afraid to speak in front of others. After practicing and receiving encouragement, she confidently presents her project to the class. She also has several other personality traits, strengths, and weaknesses.
Is Elena flat or round?
Is Elena static or dynamic?
round
dynamic
After defeating the villain, the main character returns home, reunites with family, and begins rebuilding the town.
Identify the two plot elements represented.
Falling action and resolution
A narrator explains that Olivia is excited about the school dance while Noah is worried about asking someone to go with him. The narrator knows both characters' private thoughts.
What point of view is used, and what clue helps you identify it?
3rd person omniscient
The narrator reveals the private thoughts and feelings of multiple characters.
Read the passage:
The rain poured over the abandoned playground. Mia clutched her brother's hand, hoping they would find shelter soon. She feared the storm, but her brother tried to remain brave. Neither knew that their parents were searching for them nearby.
Identify:
The mood
The point of view
The conflict the children are facing
One character trait Mia demonstrates
1. mood: suspenseful, tense, or frightening
2. Point of View: 3rd person omniscient
3. Conflict: man vs. nature
4. cautious, fearful, or protective