1. Literary Terms Metaphor: A comparison of two unlike things that have something in common –The clear lake was a mirror reflecting the clouds. Simile: A metaphor using “like” or “as” –The lake was like a mirror.

2. Irony: The contrast between what we expect and what actually happens –He was so busy helping other people study that he did not study himself and failed the test. Alliteration: The repetition of initial consonant sounds –Come quickly, Ken! –She sells sea shells down by the sea shore.

3. Hyperbole: exaggeration to make a point –My backpack weighs a ton! Personification: Giving human qualities to an inanimate object –The wind screamed all night. Onomatopoeia: Words that imitate the sounds they refer to --The bacon sizzled and crackled in the pan.

4. Foreshadowing: Hints and clues that tip the reader off as to what is to come later in the story –Nothing bad had happened…yet. Tone: The writer’s attitude towards his or her subject –Examples: amused, objective, angry, etc. Mood: Atmosphere or feeling that a literary work conveys to the reader. –Examples: scary, happy, tension, anticipation, suspenseful

5. Understatement: when a writer or speaker deliberately makes a situation seem less important or serious than it is. (opposite of hyperbole) –It’s only 32 degrees below zero outside. Just a bit chilly. Euphemism: A phrase used in place of something disagreeable or upsetting –He passed away. –She has a bun in the oven. –I need to use the facilities (restroom).

6. Exposition: Characters, setting and conflict are introduced. Rising Action: Conflict begins to develop producing interest and suspense. Climax: The turning point of the story; character(s) in conflict must make a decision. Falling Action: Loose ends are beginning to be tied up. Resolution: Story comes to a reasonable ending.