| A | B |
|---|
| novel | a long, often complex work that takes the average reader several days, or even weeks, to finish |
| short story | has one main conflict that involves the characters, keeps the story moving and makes it interesting |
| character | the people who take part in the action of a story |
| setting | the particular time and place in which the events of a story occur |
| historical fiction | fiction where the time frame of the story is the past |
| science fiction | fiction where the time frame of the story is the future |
| fantasy | stories that often have only vague references to the time frame |
| realistic fiction | fiction that takes place in modern times and features the truthful representation of people and situations |
| plot | sequence of events in a story |
| conflict | a problem or struggle between opposing forces |
| exposition | an introduction to give the reader important background information |
| rising action | complications arise causing difficulties for the main character and mke the conflict more difficult to resolve |
| climax | the turning point of the story |
| falling action | the conflict is resolved and any loose ends of the story are tied up |
| theme | a main idea in a work of fiction |
