Narrative Structure & Literary Elements
What is exposition?
The part of a story that introduces setting and main characters.
What makes a theme universal?
A universal theme is important because it is meaningful across different cultures and time periods.
What is a primary source?
A firsthand account of an event is called this type of source.
What is comparative analysis?
Comparing two texts to identify similar central messages/theme.
What 3 things should a good research question be?
A research question should be clear, specific, and arguable
What is rising action?
This stage of plot development builds tension and develops conflicts.
How do authors develop complex themes?
Authors often develop themes using symbolism, character development, and plot.
What is a secondary source?
This type of source analyzes or explains primary sources.
How is text evidence used in comparative analysis?
Text evidence is used to support analysis with direct quotes and
What test is used to evaluate sources?
The CRAAP test.
What is the climax of a story?
The turning point where the conflict reaches its highest intensity.
What is a round character?
A character with complex and developing personality traits is called this.
Why is it important to compare and verify information?
Researchers should examine multiple sources for this reason.
Why is it important to used different types of sources?
Using both primary and secondary sources provides different perspectives and analysis.
Why do you have to cite your sources?
To avoid plagiarism and to allow a reader to check the sources.
What is character vs. self?
A conflict in which a character struggles with their conscience or emotions.
What is symbolism?
This literary device adds deeper meaning to objects, actions, or events in a story.
What is bias?
Emotional language without evidence may indicate this problem in a source.
What are features of a text that can be analyzed?
Word choice, figurative language, tone, mood, etc.
How can you narrow down a research question?
Make each element more specific, such as location, age, cause, effect, etc.
What is indirect characterization?
This type of characterization reveals traits through actions, thoughts, and dialogue instead of directly stating them.
How do you analyze character development?
By tracking a character’s actions, thoughts, and changes throughout the story.
What types of websites are generally considered reliable?
.edu or .gov
What is the goal of comparative analysis?
To understand a theme more deeply by comparing/contrasting different perspectives.
What is the best way to use Wikipedia of Google AI search results when doing research?
Follow the links or references cited to verify information, but never cite either one directly.