Literary Elements
What is Exposition? Give an example from a story we've read.
This part of the plot provides necessary background information about the setting and characters.
What is a Stanza?
A group of lines in a poem, similar to a paragraph in a prose essay.
What is a Simile? Give me an example.
A comparison of two unlike things using the words "like" or "as."
What is the meaning of the italicized word? Replace it with a synonym.
The math test was arduous, requiring three hours of intense focus and complex problem-solving.
Difficult, tiring, or involving great effort
What is the meaning of the root "phon?"
This Greek root found in "telephone" and "phonics" means "sound.
What is First-Person Point of View? Give an example from a story we've read.
This is the perspective from which a story is told, using pronouns like "I" and "me."
What is Rhyme Scheme? Give an example.
The pattern of end rhymes in a poem, usually marked with letters like ABAB.
What is Personification? Give me an example.
Giving human qualities or characteristics to non-human objects or animals.
What is the meaning of the italicized word? Replace it with a synonym.
Jason was gregarious in his pursuit of new friends; he introduced himself to every person he met in the hallway.
Sociable, outgoing, or fond of company
What is the meaning of the root "vis?"
This Latin root found in "visible" and "visitation" means "to look or see."
What happens at the Climax of a story? Give an example from a story we've read.
The turning point of a story where the conflict reaches its highest peak of tension.
What is Onomatopoeia? Give an example.
Words that sound like what they represent, such as "hiss," "boom," or "chirp."
What is Hyperbole? Give me an example.
An extreme exaggeration used for emphasis or effect, such as "I've told you a million times."
What is the meaning of the italicized word? Replace it with a synonym.
The coach’s stringent rules—such as no cell phones and a 9:00 PM curfew—ensured the team stayed focused on the championship.
Strict, demanding
What is the meaning of the root "graph?"
This Greek root found in "autograph" and "biography" means "to write."
What is a Dynamic or Round Character? Give an example from a story we've read.
A character who undergoes a significant internal change throughout the course of a story.
What is Imagery?
Language that appeals to the five senses—sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch—to create a picture in your mind.
What is an Idiom? Give me an example.
An expression that cannot be understood literally, such as "piece of cake" or "under the weather."
What is the meaning of the italicized word? Replace it with a synonym.
After the team lost the game, a somber mood filled the locker room; no one spoke, and many players sat with their heads down.
Gloomy, sad, or serious
What is the meaning of the root "dict?"
This Latin root found in "dictate" and "prediction" means "to speak or say."
What is Foreshadowing?
A technique where an author hints at events that will happen later in the plot to create suspense.
What is Free Verse? What is it the closest to?
Poetry that does not follow a consistent meter, rhythm, or rhyme scheme; it often mimics the sound of natural speech.
What is a Metaphor? Give me an example.
A comparison where one thing is spoken of as though it were something else, without using "like/as."
What is the meaning of the italicized word? Replace it with a synonym.
The scientist’s theory was tenuous because it was based on a single experiment that no one else could replicate.
Weak, shaky, or having little substance
What is the meaning of the root "chron?"
This root found in "chronological" and "synchronize" means "time."