Vocab Rewind
To flow out suddenly, with force
spurt
This opening technique grabs the reader’s attention—examples include quotes, questions, or surprising facts.
hook
She quickly finished her essay.
adverb
A comparison using “like” or “as.”
simile
the central idea, message, or insight that a writer explores in a work of literature
theme
To damage a good name or reputation
discredit
a closing paragraph that restates your claim and summarizes your argument
conclusion
The students debated their ideas in class.
Words that imitate sounds
onomatopoeia
the main sequence of events of a play, novel, movie
plot
to harm again and again; treat cruelly, especially because of dislike of a person’s ideas, race, religion, etc.
persecute
This type of sentence clearly states your opinion and the main points you will argue.
thesis / claim
The claim was hard to understand because it lacked details.
conjunction
An extreme exaggeration used for effect. Example: Our classroom is colder than Antarctica today!
hyperbole
the part of a story where tension and conflict build
rising action
something that blocks the way
barrier
facts, statistics or expert testimonies that support your argument
evidence
Their argument was logical and clear.
adjective
The wind whispered through the trees.
personification
This part of the narrative introduces the characters, setting, and basic situation.
exposition
He couldn’t ________ spending so much money on a jacket he didn’t really need.
justify
In an argumentative essay, this section presents the other side’s viewpoint before you provide a rebuttal
counterargument / counterclaim
The class discussed ways to improve writing, including adding examples.
verb
The repetition of beginning consonant sounds: wild and windy weather.
alliteration
A mental or emotional battle occurring within a character is called ____ ____
internal conflict