How an author shows readers what a character is like. Example: The author uses characterization to show that Maya is brave.
Theme
The central message or lesson the author wants you to learn from a story. Example: The theme of the story is that honesty matters.
After School Homework 2026 - Vicky
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portrayal | description | depiction
Characterization
story path | plot structure | storyline
Narrative arc or plot map
representation | symbol | meaning
Symbolism
message | lesson | meaning
Theme
attitude | voice | approach
Tone
Narrative arc or plot map
How a story begins, builds, reaches a problem, and ends. Example: The narrative arc shows the character facing a problem and solving it.
Symbolism
When something in a story represents something else, like an idea or feeling. Example: The broken chain is symbolism for freedom in the story.
Tone
The author’s attitude toward the subject or characters; it is how the writing sounds (serious, cheerful, angry, etc.). Example: The tone is serious when the author describes the danger carefully.
imagery | comparison | expression
Figurative language
feeling | atmosphere | emotion
Mood
Figurative language
Language that uses comparisons or images to help the reader understand ideas (not meant to be taken literally). Example: When the author says “time flew,” that is figurative language.
Mood
The feeling a story creates for the reader. Example: The mood is joyful when the characters celebrate together.
Into the Air
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defeat
To prevent a person’s success. The hard test did not defeat her because she kept trying.
discourage
To take away hope or confidence. The coach did not discourage the team after a mistake.
lap
To wash against something gently. Small waves lap against the side of the boat.
demonstration
A presentation that shows how something works. The teacher gave a demonstration of the science experiment.
preserve
To keep something safe or save it. The museum works to preserve old paintings.
table
An orderly way to organize information in rows and columns. We made a table to organize the results.
