Word Choice
What does “word choice” mean in storytelling? How does it impact the story?
The author’s selection of words, which changes the feeling of the story.
What does “imagery” help the reader do?
Imagine the scenes clearly; see the descriptions in our minds.
What is characterization?
How an author shows what a character is like
What is tone?
The author’s attitude toward the subject
What is mood in a story?
The feeling the reader gets (the atmosphere)
How would using simple language affect a story?
It makes the story easier to understand or more down-to-earth.
What senses can imagery appeal to?
Sight, sound, smell, taste, touch; all the senses.
What are three ways authors show the character traits?
Through actions, speech, or describing them
What tone might come from sarcastic language (verbal irony)?
Humorous or mocking
What mood is created by words like “lonely,” “dark,” or “cold”?
Sad or scary
Why do authors use formal or informal words in stories?
To affect the tone and/or the mood
Which line is an example of imagery: “The leaves were bright green with some brown” or “The man stepped on the leaves”?
“The leaves were bright green with some brown”
How does description help us understand characters?
It gives clues about personality or emotions
Which words can create a hopeful tone?
Bright, future, dream, rising
How can weather help build mood in a story?
It can reflect or intensify emotions
What can emotional or vivid word choices do for the reader?
Help create mood or strong imagery
How does imagery help build the world of a story?
It gives vivid and realistic detail
What kind of words might show a brave character?
Confident, bold, fearless
How does tone affect the way we feel about a story?
It shapes our emotional response
What mood might be created by a scene of children playing in sunlight?
Joyful or peaceful
Give one reason why word choice is important for showing a character’s personality.
It reflects how they think or speak.
Why might an author use dark imagery in a story?
To build suspense or fear
What is a better way to describe a character, by telling (directly) or showing (indirectly)? Why
Indirectly (by showing) because it lets us see the character through their own actions
If an author uses dramatic or intense language, what tone might that suggest?
Serious or passionate
How does mood differ from tone?
Mood is how the reader feels; tone is the author’s attitude