Short story elements
Stages of Plot
"Everyday Use"
"Two Kinds"
Discussion and Diction
100

When and where the story takes place? 

setting 

100

This stage provides background information of the characters and the setting.

exposition 

100

What does Dee want to do with the quilts? 

Hang them on display 
100

What does Jing-mei's daughter want her to become? Why is this a problem? 

a prodigy; you are born a prodigy 

100

What is diction? 

the words the author chooses to use

200

The central idea that dominates a story is called the 

theme

200

The sequence of events is called

plot 

200

Maggie's shyness arises from what? 

Her burn scars

200

What are the two kinds of daughters according to the mother in "Two Kinds"? 

Obedient and those who follow their own minds 

200

Which is marked by sophisticated wording and standard English, formal or informal diction? 

formal 

300

The point of view that uses firsthand experience and pronouns like I, me, my, etc. 

First person point of view 

300

In what stage does the interest build?

rising action 

300

What is the main conflict of "Everyday Use"? 

Dee wants the quilts and Mama does not want to give them to her. 

300

What do readers learn in the exposition that is important to understanding Jing-mei’s mother’s character?

Jing-mei's mother lost her family in China. 

300

Which type of diction is the following example? Everyone needs to go to college to be successful. 

Generalization

400

The main character and the person who opposes the main character is called the ______ and _______

protagonist and antagonist

400

The highest point of interest in the story and the turning point in the story. 

climax

400

Why doesn't Mama want to give the quilts to Dee? 

She has promised them to Maggie. 

400

Describe the piano recital. 

It was a fiasco; she completely embarrassed her family. 

400

What themes do "Two Kinds" and "Everyday Use" have in common? 

Identity, culture, parent-child relationships

500
A break in the chronological flow to reveal something that happened prior to the action of the plot. 

flashback

500

What is another name for resolution? 

denouement

500
What is the significance of the quilts in "Everyday Use"? 

The represent a connection between the past and the present. 

500

How did Jing-mei feel about being a prodigy? 

At first she was excited, but then she grew tired of failing. 

500

Contrast Maggie and Dee regarding appearances, education, and values. 

Maggie- unattractive, not bright,  loves her family/heritage

Dee- beautiful, educated, does not appreciate her heritage.

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