Do now: What are the different types of shoes? What are the different categories of music? What are the different categories of movies? What are the different genres of literature?

Definitions & Examples Mrs. German Literary Genres Definitions & Examples Mrs. German

DEFINITIONS Genre: A category of writing characterized by certain details. Elements: Details, components Fiction & Non Fiction: The 2 largest genres of literature

REALISTIC FICTION These stories are also fiction. They are set in current times, characters face common, realistic situations.

HISTORICAL FICTION These stories are also fiction but are set in a true historical period of time. They include elements of that time in history. History is a big part of the story

SCIENCE FICTION These are stories that tell of something that has never happened, but is possible within scientific means. Outer space Aliens, clones, mutations Settings in the future

FANTASY This is a type of fiction that includes elements that could not exist in real life. Mythical characters: unicorns, fairies, wizards, witches Unreal situations

NON FICTION These are true stories. Examples: novels, a published diary

INFORMATIONAL BOOKS This literature shares information about a topic. It can be about how to do something, explaining what something is, etc. Examples: encyclopedia, newspaper, journals, articles.

BIOGRAPHY These stories explain the life of another person. It is written in second or third person. There is also autobiography. This is a story written in first person. They are narrative, tell a story, and include facts and details.

Other Genres

MYSTERY These stories have an element of suspense. Usually a crime is committed and the point of the story is to solve it. There are usually clues within the story to help you.

POETRY They are written in verses or stanzas. There are different types of poetry: sonnets, lyrical, haiku and more It creates imagery.

DRAMA It is a form of fiction presented in performance. This is usually written out and then performed where actors follow the script. Common types: Drama, musical, comedy

FOLKTALE These stories have been passed down orally from generation to generation. Myths, fables, fairy tales Moral or lesson

EXIT SLIP: What is your favorite genre? Name a book and movie you have watched in this genre. What elements of that movie & book make it fit into that genre?