1. Genre

2. What is a Genre?
A genre is a class or category of similar pieces of writing.
Fiction is literature that describes imaginary events and people.
Non-fiction is writing that is based on facts, real events, and real people.

3. Realistic Fiction Typically set in the present or recent past
Characters are involved in events that could actually happen
Characters live in places that are or could be real
Characters seem like real people facing conflicts that could happen in real life, and solve those conflicts in a realistic way

4. Science Fiction Typically set in the future
Science or technology alters the plot
Characters may face unusual or unreal conflicts (robots, aliens, etc.)
Stories include a human element, explaining what effects new discoveries and scientific developments could have on us (humans) in the future
Stories should be based on scientific principles that are at least partially true, and not be completely unbelievable—otherwise, the story fits better under fantasy

5. Historical Fiction Set in the past
Incorporates past events or people into fictional stories
Time period is important, and depiction of time period is realistic
Accurate portrayal of life during that time period

6. Fantasy/Fairytale Contains elements that are not realistic
Uses magic or other supernatural phenomena as a primary element of plot, theme, and/or setting
Settings are often imaginary worlds where magic or magical creatures are common

7. Mystery Can be set in any time period
Can be realistic settings, events, and characters
Suspense, clues, crime, suspects, and victims are all common elements of mystery stories
Mystery is solved by the end of the story
Detective or crime novels are common examples of the mystery genre

8. Drama Includes a script Performed for audiences
Relies on emotional and relational development of realistic characters

9. Poetry May have rhyme scheme, figurative language
Can have many different tones/moods (humorous, sad, etc.)
May tell a story

10. Biography/Autobiography
True and factual
A biography is written about a real person, alive or dead
An autobiography is written by you and about you
A memoir is a type of autobiography or biography written about personal moments in one’s life or the life of someone the author knows