5 Elements of a Short Story.ppt
- 1. 1 5 Important Elements of a Short Story The 5 key elements that make up a short story are: Characters Setting Conflict Theme Plot
- 2. 2 Character A character is a person, or sometimes an animal, who takes part in the action of a short story or other literary work. Characters and how we get to know them: Through the author’s physical description of them Through their actions Through their words (dialogue) Through their inner thoughts Through what other characters say and think about them
- 3. 3 Setting Setting is the time and place that a story occurs. Authors often use descriptions of landscape, scenery, buildings, seasons or weather to provide a strong sense of setting.
- 4. 4 Theme Theme is the meaning behind events and characters’ actions in a story. The theme is the central idea, message, or purpose in a short story. A theme can be expressed as a general statement about people or life. It is NOT plot summary. It can be either directly or indirectly stated by the author. Most likely indirectly.
- 5. 5 Conflict Conflict is any of the problems that a character encounters in a story. The conflict is a struggle between two people or things in a short story. The main character is on one side of the main conflict. Conflicts can be: 1. External – conflict with others and with nature 2. Internal – conflict within themselves The main character may struggle: against another important character against the forces of nature against society against something inside himself or herself (feelings, emotions, illness).
- 6. 6 Plot Plot is a pattern of events that develop from the interactions between characters. A plot is a series of events and character actions that relate to the central conflict. There are 5 elements of plot: Exposition Rising Action Climax Falling Action Conclusion
- 7. 7 Plot Diagram 5 Elements of Plot
- 8. 8 Exposition The start or introduction of the story. The background information that the reader must have in order to understand the story. This is where characters and setting are introduced.
- 9. 9 Rising Action All of the events that take place leading up to the climax. This is where the reader is introduced to the conflict.
- 10. 10 Climax The most exciting part of the story. The turning point in the story. Here the story is turned in a different direction, toward the conclusion.
- 11. 11 Falling Action The immediate reaction to the climax. All the actions that occur after the climax and before the conclusion of the story.
- 12. 12 Resolution The conclusion of the plot. Loose ends are tied up. There might not be a clear resolution. This is called a cliffhanger ending.