Literary Elements
This part of a story introduces the characters, setting, and basic situation at the beginning.
“Data proves this program increases success rates by 30%.”
What is logos
to study or examine something in detail, in order to discover more about it
analyze
What is one example of figurative language in the sentence, and how does it contribute to the mood?
Text:
“The frightened kitten trembled like a leaf during the thunderstorm.”
The phrase “like a leaf” is an example of a simile because it compares the kitten to a leaf using the word “like.”
It contributes to a nervous and fearful mood by emphasizing how badly the kitten is shaking.
Read the excerpt below.
“Recycling helps reduce pollution, conserve resources, and protect wildlife habitats.”
What is the author’s purpose?
To inform readers about the benefits of recycling.
This is the most exciting or important moment in a story when the main problem is at its peak.
What is climax
Which appeal: “Think about the future of your children if we don’t act.”
What is pathos
infer
What is one example of figurative language in the sentence, and what does it convey about the character?
Text:
“After losing the championship game, Marcus carried a storm cloud over his head for the rest of the week.”
The phrase “carried a storm cloud over his head” is an example of a metaphor because it compares Marcus’s emotions to a storm cloud without using “like” or “as.”
It conveys that Marcus is feeling gloomy and upset.
“Although Mia failed the audition the first time, she continued practicing every day until she finally earned the lead role.”
What theme is BEST supported by the passage?
Perseverance leads to success.
This literary element is how an author shows what a character is like through actions, thoughts, and dialogue.
What is characterization
A speaker uses statistics AND emotional stories. Name TWO appeals being used.
What is logos and pathos
the atmosphere of a piece of writing; it's the emotions a selection arouses in a reader
mood
What is one example of figurative language in the sentence, and how does it contribute to the author’s message?
Text:
“I’ve told you a million times to clean your room before guests arrive!”
The phrase “a million times” is an example of hyperbole because it exaggerates how many times the speaker has repeated the request.
It contributes to the author’s message by showing the speaker’s frustration.
“Samantha hurried through the crowded hallway while clutching the project she had worked on all week. She hoped her teacher would be impressed.”
What point of view is used in the passage?
Third-person point of view, because the narrator refers to the character as “Samantha” and “she.”
This term refers to the sequence of events that happen in a story from beginning to end.
What is plot
“According to a recent study, 85% of students who read 20 minutes a day improve their vocabulary scores.”
Which rhetorical appeal is being used in this excerpt?
What is Logos
To create over time
to grow or cause to grow more mature, or more advanced
develop
What is one example of figurative language in the sentence, and what mood does it convey?
Text:
“The icy wind howled through the empty streets late at night.”
The phrase “wind howled” is an example of personification because the wind is given a human or animal-like action.
It conveys a dark and eerie mood.
“According to a statewide survey, schools that added extra reading time saw student test scores increase by 15%.”
What type of evidence does the author use to support the argument?
Statistics/data from a survey
This type of conflict happens when a character struggles with their own thoughts or feelings.
What is man vs. self
“As a teacher with over 20 years of experience, I have seen how daily reading transforms students’ lives. Imagine the confidence your child will feel when they succeed.”
Which TWO rhetorical appeals are being used in this excerpt?
What is ethos and pathos
When what happens is different from what is expected.
Example: A fire station burns down.
irony
What is one example of figurative language in the sentence, and how does it contribute to the reader’s understanding of the setting?
Text:
“The aroma of fresh bread drifted through the crowded market while golden lanterns glowed against the dark evening sky.”
The descriptions “aroma of fresh bread” and “golden lanterns glowed” are examples of imagery because they appeal to the senses of smell and sight.
They contribute to the reader’s understanding of the setting by helping the reader vividly imagine the warm and lively market scene.
“According to a 2025 national education study, students who read at least 20 minutes daily scored 18% higher on comprehension assessments.”
Why is this evidence considered strong in an argument?
It uses credible, research-based statistics to support the claim.