1. Elements of Literature Every fiction piece contains the following important parts to make it a good story.

2. We will look at examples from Cinderella.

3. Where and when a story takes place. Example-The story of Cinderella takes place long ago in a far away kingdom. Parts of the story happen in her house and parts of it happen at the ball in the palace. Setting

4. The people or animals in the story. Major character-The most important character. The action of the plot and the main conflict revolve around him or her. Example-Cinderella Characters

5. Minor Characters-Less important characters who interact with the main character and with one another. Example-the stepsisters, the fairy godmother.

6. Protagonist-The “good guy.” Example-Cinderella Antagonist-The “bad guy.” Example-The evil stepmother

7. A series of events that happen in a story. They are connect to make the story move along. Plot

8. Exposition: The beginning of the story. Characters, setting and main conflict are introduced. The plot includes three stages.

9. As a child Cinderella was happy. After her mother died, her father remarried a mean woman with two daughters. The stepmother gave her daughters everything and Cinderella nothing. Example of Exposition

10. The conflict develops and suspense builds. Stage two in the plot is Rising Action

11. A messenger delivers an invitation to the ball. The stepmother tells Cinderella she çan go if she finished her chores. The Fairy Godmother gives Cinderella a dress and a coach. Cinderella arrives at the ball and dances with the Prince. On the way out she drops her shoe. Example of Rising Action

12. The climax is the most exciting point in the story. Stage three in the plot is the climax.

13. The Prince finds Cinderella and puts the glass slipper on her foot. It fits! Example of the Climax

14. The story concludes and loose ends are tied up. The last stage includes the falling action and resolution

15. Example of Falling Action and Resolution The Prince asks Cinderella to marry him. She says “yes,” and they live happily ever after.