Literary Terms
Plot Diagram
Types of Conflict
Character Connections
Theme Analysis
100
Draw the plot diagram and label each part.
Exposition -- Rising Action -- Climax -- Falling Action -- Resolution
100
Define exposition and provide an example from one of our short stories.
The background/sets the story in motion.
100
What type of conflict is depicted in "MDG"? Explain.
-character vs. character -character vs. nature
100
Describe the relationship between Zaroff and Rainsford.
-Opponents -Protagonist vs. Antagonist -Both smart, cunning hunters
100
Define theme and provide an example from a short story, book, film, or song of your choice.
Theme - the central idea or message of a story. Other answers will vary.
200
Define setting and provide an example from one of our short stories.
Setting - time AND place (not just physical setting, but also time period, culture, position, etc.)
200
Define rising action and provide an example from one of our short stories.
Character begins to encounter problems/complications/obstacles.
200
What type of conflict is depicted in "A Christmas Memory"? Explain.
-character vs. character -character vs. self -character vs. society
200
Describe the relationship between Buddy and his friend/cousin.
-Loving -Caring -Loyal
200
What is the difference between a "subject" and a "theme"?
A subject is simply a concept around which the story revolves, while a theme makes a revelation about that subject and is a complete thought.
300
Define symbolism and provide an example from one of our short stories.
Symbolism - when an object in a story stands for a larger concept/idea
300
Define climax and provide an example from one of our short stories.
The turning point, or most important event in the story.
300
What type of conflict is depicted in "The Scarlet Ibis"? Explain.
-character vs. character -character vs. self -character vs. nature -character vs. society
300
Describe the relationship between Doodle and his brother.
-Love/Hate -Kindness/Anger -Brother wants to push Doodle to his limit to help him be "normal" -Brother embarrassed about Doodle's condition
300
What is a possible theme for "The Scarlet Ibis"? Cite a specific event in the text to support your position.
Answers will vary, but possibilities include: -What doesn't kill you makes you stronger. -You shouldn't expect too much out of others; they can often let you down. -High expectations allow you to reach your full potential.
400
Define direct characterization and provide an example.
Direct characterization - an author tells us about a character Example: She was a patient and kind-hearted young woman.
400
Define falling action and provide an example from one of our short stories.
The pieces that need to be tied together after the big event.
400
Provide one real-life example of any of the four types of conflict.
Answers will vary.
400
The below quotation is an example of what type of characterization and reveals what trait about the character being described? "He saw the dead black eyes of the general on him, studying him."
Indirect characterization - This quote reveals that Zaroff is both menacing and intimidating, but also very observant.
400
The subject of "The Most Dangerous Game" is survival. What theme could you write based on that subject?
Answers will vary, but one possibility is: -Survival is a natural human instinct.
500
Define indirect characterization and provide an example.
Indirect characterization - What we learn about a character through their speech, thoughts, actions, effect on others, and looks.
500
Define resolution and provide an example from one of our short stories.
"Happily ever after." Everything has been taken care of and the initial problem that the character faced has been solved.
500
List all four types of conflict with real-life examples (not from a short story).
Answers will vary.
500
Name one trait that Doodle, Rainsford, and Buddy's friend/cousin all have in common. Be sure to support your answer with textual evidence!
Answers will vary, but possibilities include: -dependence -persistence/determination
500
Provide me with one subject explored in "The Scarlet Ibis," and then write a theme about that subject.
Answers will vary, but could include: -pride: Pride leads to a downfall. -love: Love is both a blessing and a curse.
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