1. Elements of a Story

2. Story Basics
Plot
Setting
Point of View
Character
Conflict
Theme
Motif

3. Plot A sequence of events that tell a story
Builds towards a climax or turning point

4. Setting The time and place of the story
Creates a background for the action
It can interact with and affect the characters
Affects the atmosphere or mood of the story

5. Point of View 1st Person = I & me 2nd Person = you (very rare)
I was standing in the meadow when I heard a bird.
2nd Person = you (very rare)
You are sitting in class when you hear a bird.
3rd Person Omniscient = an all-knowing narrator who is outside the events of the story and tells the thoughts and feelings of multiple characters
3rd Person Limited = a narrator who is outside the events of the story but only tells the thoughts and feelings of one character

6. Characters Effective main characters are dynamic and well-rounded
Have multiple traits or qualities
Struggle with conflicting motivation
Change by the end of the story
Minor characters are often static and flat
Flat: one trait or quality
Static: does not change

7. Characterization
Authors develop characters through characterization by using:
Imagery: creates a picture of characters and their surroundings
The gangly boy leaned against the giant oak tree.
Speech: reveals the nature of a person
“Good afternoon, sir. How are you today?”
Thoughts: shows how the character processes information
Simone kept thinking, I feel like I’ve been here before.
Actions: actions speak stronger than words (show, don’t tell)
Gerald feverishly chased after the dog dragging his gym shorts.

8. Types of Characterization
Direct
Indirect
Narrator makes direct statements about a character’s personality.
Tells the reader
Example:
Taylor was an incredibly determined girl who would let nothing stop her.
Reader learns what characters are like by analyzing what they do and say.
Shows the reader
Example:
Even though Taylor had overslept, she quickly comber her hair and rushed out the door thinking, I can’t be late for the first day of practice.

9. Conflict A struggle between two opposing forces
Man vs. Man; Man vs. Nature; Man vs. Society; Man vs. Fate
Can be an internal or external struggle
Internal: takes place in the mind; struggle to make a decision or overcome fears
External: takes place between a character and an outside force

10. Theme Underlying meaning or main idea of a written work
Deduced through the action of a story
Helps the audience make realizations about the nature of the world
Examples: coming of age, love conquers all, crime does not pay, sacrifices bring rewards, importance of family, etc.

11. Motifs & Symbols Motifs Symbol
Reoccurring object or idea that helps develop the theme of a story
Example from The Maze Runner:
WICKED is good
Change
An object that stands for a larger meaning
Common symbols are:
Colors
Water/Fire
Night/Day
Light/Dark