Characterization
Motivation
Character Development
Conflict Types
Literary Detectives
100

The narrator states, "Lena was generous and thoughtful." What type of characterization is this? 

Direct characterization

100

A student studies because they personally value learning. This is what type of motivation?

internal motivation

100

A character who remains essentially unchanged throughout a story is described as this.

static

100

Two classmates argue over who should lead a project. Identify the conflict.

character vs character

100

The narrator says, 'Marcus was impatient.' Is this direct or indirect characterization?

direct characterization

200

A character gives a stranger their umbrella during a storm. The reader infers kindness from this action. This is what type of characterization?

Indirect characterization

200

A student studies to earn a cash prize. This is what type of motivation?

external motivation

200

A character who experiences a meaningful change in beliefs, behavior, or outlook is described as this.

dynamic

200

A climber struggles to survive an avalanche. Identify the conflict.

character vs. nature

200

A character repeatedly checks the locks before bed. Name one possible internal trait the reader might infer.

anxious, cautious, fearful

300

A character's honesty, fear, and determination are examples of this kind of trait.

Internal trait

300

A character wants to tell the truth but fears losing all their friends. What kind of struggle is this?

character vs. self, or internal conflict

300

A character who has only one or two developed personality traits is described as this.

flat

300

A character challenges an unjust law imposed by the government. Identify the conflict.

character vs. society

300

A character wants to help a friend but is pressured by a group to stay silent. Identify the primary conflict if the struggle centers on the character's decision.

character vs. self

400

A character has a complex personality with several different qualities and motivations. This character is described as this.

Round 

400

A character begins a race to win a trophy but continues training because they love improving. Identify the external and internal motivations.

trophy - external motivation

love of improving - internal motivation

400

A selfish character gradually learns to care about others and changes how they behave. This character is best described as this.

dynamic character

400

A self-driving vehicle malfunctions and puts its passengers in danger. Identify the conflict.

Character vs. technology

400

A character is described as generous, jealous, funny, and insecure, but these traits remain unchanged. Identify two classifications that can describe the character.

round;static

500

Explain the difference between a round character and a dynamic character.

A round character has complexity; a dynamic character undergoes meaningful change.

500

A character apologizes after realizing the harm they caused, even though no one demands an apology. Explain the likely internal motivation.

Remorse, empathy, or a personal desire to make things right.

500

A character is complex but never changes. Give the two classifications that can describe this character.

round;static

500

A character must overcome a curse placed by a ghost. Identify the conflict and explain why.

Character vs. supernatural

500

A character is afraid to speak publicly but delivers a speech to protect a cause they believe in. Identify the likely conflict, motivation, and trait demonstrated.

 Character vs. self; internal motivation connected to the cause; courage or determination.