Plot Structure
What is the series of events in a narrative called?
Plot
What is the main character in a story called?
Protagonist
What does the setting tell us about a story?
The time and place of the story’s action
What does an author's perspective include?
Their ideas, beliefs, and experiences
What is the usual word limit for a short story?
Under 10,000 words
What part of the plot introduces the setting and characters?
Exposition
What do the protagonist’s goals and desires do for the plot?
Drive the plot forward
What does the acronym STEAL stand for in characterization?
Speech, Thoughts, Effects on others, Actions, Looks
In nonfiction, what are two ways a writer’s perspective might be revealed?
Word choice and selection of information
How long is a novella, in terms of word count?
Between 17,500 and 40,000 words
What stage includes obstacles that make the conflict more complicated?
Rising Action
What is the character or force that opposes the protagonist called?
Antagonist
What kind of characterization is it when the writer tells you directly what a character is like?
Direct Characterization
Name three things you can examine in nonfiction to understand the author’s POV.
Word choice, tone, direct statements
What story form usually contains over 40,000 words and allows for multiple plots and themes?
Novel
What is the turning point in a story and the moment of greatest suspense?
Climax
What are some examples of what an antagonist can be?
Another character, a group, nature, or internal conflict
What is indirect characterization, and how do readers figure it out?
When the writer shows character traits through details; readers infer using STEAL
In fiction, how might a writer’s perspective be revealed?
Through the theme or message of the story
Why might a novella have more character development than a short story?
Because it’s longer and allows for more plot and character complexity
What are the final two parts of a plot after the climax, and what does each one do?
Falling Action (shows outcome), Resolution (ties up loose ends), sometimes a twist before ending
Why are the antagonist’s goals important to the story’s conflict?
They create obstacles that the protagonist must overcome
Why is paying attention to characterization details important when analyzing a character’s traits?
It helps you fully understand the character’s personality and motivations
What’s the difference between how perspective is revealed in nonfiction vs. fiction?
In nonfiction, it’s shown through treatment of the topic; in fiction, through theme
Which type—short story, novella, or novel—can afford the slowest pace and most description, and why?
Novel, because of its longer length and more room for detail