Story Structure
Plot
The sequence of events in a story, including the beginning, middle, and end.
Foil Character
A character who contrasts with another to highlight qualities.
Diction
The author’s choice of words.
Simile & Metaphor
Simile – A comparison using "like" or "as."
Metaphor – A direct comparison between two things without using "like" or "as."
Dialogue
Conversations between characters
Exposition
The introduction of background information, including setting, characters, and conflict.
Dynamic Character
A character who undergoes significant change.
Syntax
The arrangement of words in sentences.
Hyperbole
An extreme exaggeration.
3rd Person Limited & 3rd Person Omniscient
3rd Person Limited – The narrator knows the thoughts and feelings of one character.
3rd Person Omniscient – The narrator knows the thoughts and feelings of all characters.
Inciting Incident
The event that sets the main conflict into motion.
Static Character
A character who remains the same throughout the story.
Symbol
An object or concept that represents something else.
Onomatopoeia
A word that imitates a sound (e.g., "buzz," "bang").
Tone & Mood
Mood – The emotional atmosphere of a story.
Tone – The author’s attitude toward the subject.
Rising Action & Falling Action
Rising Action – The series of events that build tension and lead up to the climax.
Flat Character
A character with little depth or complexity.
Theme
The central idea or message in a story.
Juxtaposition
Placing two things side by side for contrast.
Alliteration
The repetition of initial consonant sounds.
Denouement
The final part of a story where everything is wrapped up.
Round Character
A well-developed, complex character.
Motif
A recurring element in a story that has symbolic significance.
Idiom
A phrase whose meaning is different from its literal words (e.g., "raining cats and dogs").
Oxymoron
A phrase combining contradictory terms (e.g., "bittersweet").