Literary Elements and Devices

Reader can use the literary devices used by the author to make strong mental images

This teacher provokes the best in students; she is a rock star; students think she is bomb.com

the opposition between characters or forces that shapes the action of the plot

point of the greatest tension in the story, a turning point in the action

"By doing well in both of those classes, you'll get a lot of bang for your buck!"

"The imposing linebacker is a freight train, aggressively crashing through opposing players."

The reader can "read between the lines"; draw conclusions not stated by the author using clues

When a character is struggling with another character or outside force

"The soft, soothing sensation of the soup eased the pain in my throat."

Main character in a drama or literary work, not necessarily "good"; working toward something

the outcome of a series of events; the final resolution to the main problem or complication

"BOOM! BANG! Firepower!"

time, place, period, and/or environment in which a story is set

"The frigid wind attacked the fragile skin on my face."

"Don't be such a Scrooge!"

One who opposes and contends with another; an adversary (they are not necessarily evil)

A thinking strategy where the reader can relate to the story

a recurring idea that comes up throughout the story. The author’s opinion about the topic.

When a character is struggling with a conflict with self.

"His mess spread throughout the room, like a tornado had ravaged the space."