8th Grade Literary Terms

What is the definition of alliteration?

• The repetition of sounds, usually consonant sounds, at the beginning of words; gives emphasis to words.

• The use of vivid and descriptive language to add depth to the text.

• A figure of speech in which two opposite ideas are joined to create an effect.

• The attribution of human characteristics to non-human entities.

Tags

CCSS.RL.5.5

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

What is the definition of allusion?

• A reference to a well-known person, place, event, object or literary work.

• A direct comparison between two unlike things.

• A figure of speech that uses exaggeration.

• A statement that contradicts itself.

Tags

CCSS.RL.5.5

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

What is the definition of analogy?

• A comparison between two things that are alike in some ways. An analogy is used to explain or describe something more familiar to the reader.

• A detailed description of a single object or event.

• A method of storytelling that uses fictional characters.

• A scientific explanation of natural phenomena.

Tags

CCSS.RI.8.7

CCSS.RL.7.7

CCSS.RL.8.5

CCSS.RL.8.7

CCSS.RL.9-10.7

What is the definition of antagonist?

• A force in conflict with (working against) the protagonist. An antagonist can be another character, society, or a force of nature.

• A character who supports the protagonist in achieving their goals.

• A narrative device used to create suspense and tension.

• The main character in a story, often facing challenges.

Tags

CCSS.RL.11-12.4

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

What is the definition of archetype?

• A type of character, action, or situation that occurs over and over in literature and life.

• A unique and one-time event in a story.

• A specific and detailed description of a character's appearance.

• A random occurrence with no significance in a narrative.

Tags

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.8.9

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

What is the definition of character?

• A person, animal, imaginary creature, or natural force in a literary work.

• A type of punctuation mark used in writing.

• A mathematical symbol used in equations.

• A tool used for measuring length.

Tags

CCSS.RL.5.3

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

What is the definition of characterization?

• The techniques a writer uses to reveal a character’s personality.

• The plot development in a story.

• The setting and time period of a narrative.

• The use of dialogue in a script.

Tags

CCSS.RL.11-12.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

What is the definition of climax?

• The story’s central turning point—the moment of peak tension or conflict—which all the preceding plot developments have been leading up to.

• The introduction of the story where characters and setting are established.

• The resolution of the story where conflicts are resolved.

• The rising action where the story builds up to the climax.

Tags

CCSS.RL.5.3

CCSS.RL.5.7

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.6.9

What is the definition of conflict?

• A struggle between two opposing forces in a short story, play, novel, or narrative poem.

• A peaceful agreement between two parties.

• A detailed description of a character's background.

• A humorous event in a narrative.

Tags

CCSS.RL.2.10

CCSS.RL.2.2

CCSS.RL.2.3

CCSS.RL.4.3

CCSS.RL.4.4

What is character vs. character conflict?

• When a character has a problem with another character.

• When a character struggles with their own thoughts.

• When a character faces a natural disaster.

• When a character deals with societal issues.

Tags

CCSS.RL.5.3

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3