Story Elements: What Makes a Good Story?
What elements make a good story? setting protagonist antagonist characterization plot conflict exposition rising action climax falling action resolution point of view theme symbolism
What is a protagonist? The “good guy” or the hero The main character of the story Remember that the prefix “pro” means good.
If the protagonist is good then what is the antagonist? The bad guy or the villian Usually the person or force in conflict with the protagonist.
Why is the setting important? It tells the reader the time and place where the action is taking place
What is characterization The way we find out things about a character There are many ways to find out about a character: 1.the author tells us directly 2.what the character says in the story, his actions, or his thoughts 3.reactions and comments from other characters 4.physical appearance
Why is the plot important? Because it is what makes a story interesting, exciting, thrilling, etc. Plot is the series of events and actions that take place in a story.
What is conflict? Conflict is an important part of the plot. It’s the problem in the story that needs to be resolved A longer novel may have more than one conflict It could be internal (inside the head) or external (with another person, society, or nature)
What is Exposition? The start of the story The way things are before the actions begins. This would include the setting and any background information the author gives you
What is rising action? A series of events, conflicts, and crises that lead to the climax of the story (the top of the mountain)
Why does a story need a climax? It is the turning point of the story At the top of the mountain The most intense moment when action comes to the highest point of conflict
What is falling action? All of the action and events that follow after the climax All is leading up to the resolution/conclusion
How will a story end? A story always ends with a resolution. It’s the conclusion where all loose ends are tied up The conflict is solved.
Foreshadowing Clues the author gives you in the beginning of the story that tell you what could happen later in the story
Point of View The position of the person telling the story First Person – someone in the story is the narrator Third Person – someone outside the story (author) is telling the story
Theme The main ideas or big ideas The message the author wants to communicate by telling the story
Symbolism A symbol represents something larger than itself. A black cat may symbolize bad luck A lion could be a symbol of courage