Characterization
What does S. T. E. A. L. stand for?
speech, thoughts, effects on others, actions, looks
__________is a literary device where an author uses words, characters, objects, or elements to represent abstract ideas or concepts. These symbols can convey deeper meanings beyond their literal interpretation and add layers of complexity to the narrative.
Symbolism
A common idiom in the English language is "bite the bullet". What does this mean?
Facing a difficult or unpleasant situation with courage and determination.
_________________ refers to the emotional or cultural associations that a word carries beyond its literal definition.
Connotation
The _________________ statement tells the reader where the writer stands on a position.
thesis
Inner ______________ of a character can reveal a conflict in the story. (S.T.E.A.L.)
thoughts
Name one common symbol for death.
ex. skull, cross, grave, tombstone, raven, scythe, hourglass
What does it mean to "hit the hay"?
Go to sleep
What word means slim but has a negative connotation?
skinny
True or false?
Writers should be vague in their thesis statement so readers have to guess where they stand on an issue.
False
Thesis statements clearly state the author's position on a topic and often give specific reasons to explain why the author supports that position.
The rain poured relentlessly, drenching the city streets. In a dimly lit coffee shop, two friends sat across from each other, their conversation muted by the steady drumming of rain on the windows.
Character 1 (Samantha): "I can't believe it's come to this. Everything's falling apart."
What tone is revealed so far?
Samantha's speech conveys a sense of despair and frustration. This contributes to a tone of melancholy and uncertainty.
What can a ring symbolize?
Ex. commitment, unity, eternity, power, status, protection (in some cultures)
If you are "burning the midnight oil", you are....
Working late into the night or early morning hours.
What's the difference in a house and a home (connotations)?
A home is warm and positive. A house has a neutral connotation.
How can you improve this thesis statement?
Students should be allowed to wear what they want to school.
Ex. Students should be allowed to wear what they want to school in order to promote normal growth and development, to practice making real word decision making, and to create their social identity.
___________________in a story refers to the conversation or verbal exchange between two or more characters. The way characters speak can set the tone and mood of a story.
Dialogue
Symbols can be employed for _______________ events (the literary device in which a writer gives hints or clues about what will happen later in the story).
Ex. In The Scarlett Ibis, the bird dies after being carried away by a storm. Later, the little brother dies in storm.
foreshadowing
What does it mean "to jump on the bandwagon"?
Joining others in a popular activity or trend
Determined has a positive connotation, meaning someone is persistent in achieving their goal. What is word similar to determined but it has a negative connotation?
Stubborn
implies resistant to change or refusal to compromise (which can be good or bad depending on the situation)
Give an example of a counterargument to the following thesis statement.
Students should be allowed to wear what they want to school in order to promote normal growth and development, to practice making real word decision making, and to create their social identity.
Ex. Some people think that students are not ready for such responsibility.
What is one purpose for analyzing a character in a story?
Possible answers include: to understand the story better, to consider themes that the character is wrestling with, to understand conflict in the story, to understand a message that the author is trying to convey
What could a butterfly symbolize in a story (depending on the context of course)?
Symbolism: Butterflies are often associated with transformation, rebirth, and the fragility of life.
Example: A character's encounter with a butterfly might foreshadow significant personal changes.
What does it mean to "throw in the towel"? Give an example.
to give up or surrender
Examples can be any real life situation where you tried but it didn't work so you quit
Ex. divorce, giving up an argument, quitting a game, stop trying to fix your broken car and buy a newer one, changing careers/jobs, can't continue with boxing match
Confidence indicates self assurance and has a positive connotation. What word is similar to confident but has a negative connotation?
Ex. arrogant, cocky, prideful
Give a rebuttal to the following thesis statement and counterargument.
Students should be allowed to wear what they want to school in order to promote normal growth and development, to practice making real word decision making, and to create their social identity.
Some people think that students are not ready for such responsibility.
However, it has been shown in schools with no dress code that students learn to choose acceptable attire to wear out in public. Since there are no rules to break, students stop trying to push the limits with their clothing.