Short Story Unit Terms

Front

The sequence of events that make up a story.

Back

Plot

Front

People, animals, or imaginary creatures that take part in a story.

Back

Characters

Front

A struggle, problem, or obstacle in a story; it can be internal or external.

Back

Conflict

Front

The time and place where a story occurs.

Back

Setting

Front

A writer's central idea or main message about life.

Back

Theme

Front

Background information or events necessary to understand a story, often including an introduction to characters and setting.

Back

Exposition

Front

The conflicts and complications that develop a story.

Back

Rising Action

Front

The peak of the action: the most intense or suspenseful moment that often represents a turning point in the story.

Back

Climax

Front

The events after the climax that lead to the resolution of the story; the consequences of the climax.

Back

Falling Action

Front

The end result or conclusion. In a personal narrative, the resolution may include a reflection.

Back

Resolution