Story Elements

Worksheets
Table of Contents
Below is a list of all the worksheets included in this document.

1. Story Elements Facts

2. It’s Reading Time!
3. The Theme
4. Start with the Theme
5. Establish the Setting
6. Set Your Story
7. Character Analysis
8. The Characters
9. Outlining the Plot
10. Plot Diagram
11. A Rough Draft

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 Story Elements Facts

The elements of a story are the essential components that

make up a narrative and contribute to its structure,
development, and impact. These elements provide a
framework for understanding and analyzing storytelling.
WHAT IS A STORY?
● At its core, a story is a narrative or account of events, real or
imagined, presented in a structured form. It is a means of
communication that conveys a sequence of events,
experiences, or ideas.
● Stories are fundamental to human communication and have
been a part of cultures throughout history, serving various
purposes such as entertainment, education, and the
transmission of values.
● A story typically features characters who navigate through a
series of events, facing challenges or conflicts that drive the
narrative forward.
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 Story Elements Facts
● These events unfold within a specific setting, adding context
and atmosphere to the story. The progression of events is
guided by a plot, creating a sense of structure and purpose.
● In addition to conveying
information, stories often
evoke emotions, allowing
readers or listeners to connect
with the experiences of the
characters. They can transport
individuals to different worlds,
offer insights
into human nature, and provide a shared cultural or societal
understanding.
● Whether told through oral traditions, written language, visual
media, or a combination of these, stories are a powerful means
of expressing creativity, sharing knowledge, and fostering a
sense of empathy and understanding.
● The diversity of stories across cultures reflects the richness of
human imagination and the universal desire to communicate
and connect through narrative.
ELEMENTS OF A STORY - THE PLOT
● In a narrative, the plot or structure often follows a chronological
sequence of events, the plot, and understanding the
components of this structure is crucial for comprehending the
flow of a story.
● The INTRODUCTION sets the stage by introducing the main
characters, the setting, and the initial situation.
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 Story Elements Facts
● This section establishes the context and
provides the reader with essential
background information to grasp the
upcoming events.
● The introduction is the starting point that
sparks curiosity and lays the foundation
for the unfolding narrative.
● The RISING ACTION comprises a series
of events that build upon the introduction
and escalate the central conflict.
● Tensions rise as characters face challenges, make choices and
experience complications. The narrative gains momentum,
drawing the audience deeper into the story and creating a
sense of anticipation for what is to come.
● The CLIMAX is the narrative's pinnacle, the highest point of
tension and conflict. Here, the central struggle reaches its peak,
and the characters are forced to confront their most significant
challenges.
EXAMPLE: In the climax of "The Lion, the Witch and the
Wardrobe" by C. S. Lewis, Aslan, the majestic lion, sacrifices
himself to save Edmund from the White Witch's treachery.
However, Aslan's sacrifice is not in vain, as he resurrects and
leads the forces of good against the White Witch.
● It's the turning point that propels the story towards resolution
and holds the reader's breath with the weight of its impact.
● The RESOLUTION, or denouement, concludes the story. It
reveals the aftermath of the conflict, detailing the characters'
fates and the long-term implications of their actions.
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 Story Elements Facts
● This section provides a sense of closure and often delivers the
story's overarching message or theme.
● The resolution allows readers to reflect on their journey with the
characters and brings the narrative to a satisfying or
thought-provoking conclusion.

ELEMENTS OF A STORY - THE CHARACTERS

● Characters are essential elements
of a story, serving as the driving
force behind the narrative and
providing a means for readers to
connect with the plot and themes.
Here are some key aspects of
characters as elements of a story:
● Protagonist: The main character
around whom the story revolves.
The protagonist usually faces the Authors have the freedom to choose
their protagonists. In this image,
central conflict and undergoes either the boy or the dog could be
the main character.
significant development throughout
the narrative.
● Antagonist: The character or force that opposes the
protagonist, creating the primary source of conflict. The
antagonist's goals may directly conflict with those of the
protagonist, driving the plot forward.
● Supporting Characters: These characters complement the
protagonist and antagonist, contributing to the overall
development of the story.

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 Story Elements Facts
● They can be friends, family, mentors, or any other characters
playing a role in advancing the plot or influencing the main
characters.
● Characterization: The process of developing and portraying
the personalities, traits, and backgrounds of characters. This
includes physical attributes, emotions, motivations, and how
characters evolve over the course of the story.
EXAMPLE: Emily Thompson is a 28-year-old librarian with a
quiet demeanor. She wears glasses and is often seen with her
nose buried in a book. Her routine involves leading a calm
and solitary life in the small town of Rivertown.
● Character Arcs: The journey or transformation a character
undergoes throughout the story. Character arcs show how
individuals change, learn, or grow in response to the events and
challenges they face.
● Motivation: The reasons why characters act the way they do.
Understanding a character's motivations helps readers connect
with and empathize or sympathize with them.
● Conflict and Resolution: Characters are often the source of
conflict, whether internal struggles or external clashes with
others. The resolution of these conflicts contributes to the
overall progression of the story.
● Dialogue: The spoken words and interactions between
characters. Dialogue is a crucial tool for revealing personalities,
advancing the plot, and providing insights into relationships.
EXAMPLE: “It is only with the heart that one can see rightly;
what is essential is invisible to the eye.” — Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry, The Little Prince
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 Story Elements Facts
● Backstory: The history and experiences that shape a
character's identity. While not all details may be explicitly
revealed in the story, a well-developed backstory can add depth
and authenticity to the characters.
○ EXAMPLE: Gandalf, a wizard in J. R. R. Tolkien's “The Lord of
the Rings” story, is a Maia spirit sent by the Valar to guide and
assist the Free Peoples.
● Dynamic vs. Static Characters: Dynamic characters undergo
significant changes or growth, while static characters remain
relatively unchanged throughout the story. Both types have
specific roles in storytelling.
● Point of View (POV): The choice of POV influences how
readers perceive and relate to characters. First-person POV
allows readers direct access to the thoughts of a character,
while third-person POV provides a more external perspective.
● Symbolism: Characters can also serve as symbols,
representing broader themes, ideas, or archetypes within the
story.
ELEMENTS OF A STORY - THE SETTING
● The setting of a story refers to the time and place in which the
events unfold. It provides the backdrop against which the
characters interact, and the plot develops, influencing the
overall atmosphere and context of the narrative.
TIME
● The temporal setting involves the era, period, or specific time
when the story occurs. It could be historical, contemporary, or
futuristic. The time setting influences the cultural, social, and
technological aspects of the narrative.
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 Story Elements Facts
EXAMPLE: "Rip Van Winkle," written by Washington Irving,
is set in the pre-and-post-Revolutionary War period in the
Catskill Mountains of New York. Rip falls asleep for 20 years,
waking up to find a changed world. The story reflects social
and political changes in America during the early 19th
century.
PLACE:
● The spatial setting denotes the physical location or locations
where the story takes place. It could be a specific city, country,
planet, or even a fictional realm.
● The place setting contributes to the overall mood and tone of
the story, as different locations carry unique cultural,
geographical, and atmospheric characteristics.
● A story set in a bustling metropolis will evoke a different
ambiance than one set in a serene rural village or a mysterious,
otherworldly landscape.
● Together, the time and place settings establish the foundation
for the narrative, shaping the experiences of the characters and
influencing the story's themes.
● A well-crafted setting not only provides a vivid backdrop for the
events but also enhances the reader's immersion in the fictional
world, making the story more engaging and authentic.
EXAMPLE: "The Boy Who Cried Wolf," an Aesop's fable, is set
in a pastoral landscape, typically a village or countryside. The
story highlights the consequences of dishonesty as a young
shepherd falsely alarms villagers about a wolf attack, leading
them to disregard genuine warnings later.

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 Story Elements Facts
ELEMENTS OF A STORY - CONFLICT & RESOLUTION
● In every compelling story,
CONFLICT is the driving force,
propelling the narrative forward.
It introduces tension, challenges,
and obstacles that characters
must overcome.
● As the plot unfolds, characters confront these challenges,
leading to a pivotal moment of resolution.
● RESOLUTION, often found near the story's climax, brings
closure to the conflict, answering lingering questions and
providing a sense of fulfillment.
● It is the point where loose ends are tied, lessons are learned,
and characters undergo transformation. The resolution not only
concludes the narrative but also leaves a lasting impact,
allowing readers or viewers to reflect on the journey and the
significance of the challenges faced by the characters.
ELEMENTS OF A STORY - THE THEME
● In a story, the theme is like the story's main idea or message.
It's the big picture, the lesson the author wants you to learn, or
the feeling they want you to have after reading. Imagine you're
looking at a painting; the theme is the emotion or idea the artist
is trying to express.
● It's not just about the characters or the events but what those
things mean. So, when reading a story, think about what the
author wants you to understand or feel about life, people, or the
world.
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 Story Elements Facts
OTHER IMPORTANT ELEMENTS OF A STORY
● POINT OF VIEW (POV): As explained earlier, this is the
perspective from which the story is told. The most common
points of view include first-person (narrated by a character in
the story), third-person limited (narrated by an external voice
focusing on one character's thoughts and feelings), and
omniscient (narrated by an all-knowing observer).
● TONE: The author's attitude or emotional stance toward the
subject matter. Tone can be serious, humorous, suspenseful, or
a combination of various emotive tones.
● STYLE: The author's unique way of expressing ideas and telling
the story. This includes the use of language, sentence structure,
and literary devices.
EXAMPLE: Shakespeare's writing style is like a rich tapestry
of words. He uses beautiful language, clever wordplay, and
vivid descriptions. His plays and poems have a rhythm that's
almost musical, making his work timeless and enjoyed by
people for centuries.
● SYMBOLISM: Using symbols to represent deeper meanings or
ideas within the story. Symbols can be objects, characters, or
actions that carry additional significance beyond their literal
interpretation.
○ EXAMPLE: In "The Ugly Duckling," the swan egg symbolizes
hidden potential. The duckling's transformation into a
beautiful swan represents self-discovery and acceptance. The
story teaches that everyone has unique qualities and true
beauty lies in embracing individuality and inner worth.
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 NAME: ________________________________

The Theme
The first step in writing a story is coming up with an idea or theme.
This helps the author mold the narrative and the characters in it. Let
us familiarize ourselves with some of the most common themes.
Arrange the jumbled letters to identify them and write an example.

Emphasizes the value of EXAMPLE & SUMMARY:

companionship, loyalty, and _______________________
mutual support. Characters _______________________
DSHENIFIPR often learn about trust, _______________________
communication, and the _______________________
importance of true _______________________
_________________. _______________________

Focuses on characters EXAMPLE & SUMMARY:

overcoming fear or _______________________
adversity. It teaches _______________________
GUECORA students about bravery, _______________________
resilience, and the personal _______________________
growth that comes from _______________________
facing challenges. _______________________

Examines the concepts of EXAMPLE & SUMMARY:

fairness, equality, and the _______________________
consequences of injustice. It _______________________
STICEJU tells about the importance of _______________________
standing up for what is right _______________________
and the impact of societal _______________________
norms. _______________________

Highlights the dynamics EXAMPLE & SUMMARY:

within families, emphasizing _______________________
love, conflicts, and the _______________________
impact of relationships on _______________________
AFILYM personal growth. It can _______________________
explore different family _______________________
structures and values. _______________________

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 Examines the moral choices EXAMPLE & SUMMARY:
characters make and the _______________________
consequences of those _______________________
ODGO vs. EILV choices. It encourages _______________________
students to reflect on ethical _______________________
decision-making and the _______________________
complexities of morality. _______________________

Deals with the emotional EXAMPLE & SUMMARY:

impact of losing someone or _______________________
something important. It _______________________
LSSO & IERGF teaches about coping _______________________
mechanisms, the grieving _______________________
process, and the eventual _______________________
healing that may occur. _______________________

Illustrates the importance of EXAMPLE & SUMMARY:

determination and resilience _______________________
in the face of obstacles. _______________________
CERERPENASEV Characters overcome _______________________
challenges through _______________________
persistence and a positive _______________________
mindset. _______________________

Explores themes of EXAMPLE & SUMMARY:

diversity, tolerance, and _______________________
recognition of others who _______________________
may be different. It _______________________
APTACCECEN encourages empathy and _______________________
understanding of various _______________________
perspectives. _______________________

EXAMPLE & SUMMARY:

Focuses on the transition
_______________________
from childhood to adulthood.
_______________________
Characters often undergo
_______________________
ICONGM OF AEG personal growth,
_______________________
self-discovery, and the
_______________________
challenges of maturing.
_______________________

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 The Theme
ANSWER KEY

Emphasizes the value of EXAMPLE & SUMMARY:

FRIENDSHIP companionship, loyalty, and _______________________
mutual support. Characters _______________________
DSHENIFIPR often learn about trust, _______________________
communication, and the _______________________
importance of true _______________________
_________________. _______________________

Focuses on characters EXAMPLE & SUMMARY:

COURAGE overcoming fear or _______________________
adversity. It teaches _______________________
GUECORA students about bravery, _______________________
resilience, and the personal _______________________
growth that comes from _______________________
facing challenges. _______________________

Examines the concepts of EXAMPLE & SUMMARY:

JUSTICE fairness, equality, and the _______________________
consequences of injustice. It _______________________
STICEJU tells about the importance of _______________________
standing up for what is right _______________________
and the impact of societal _______________________
norms. _______________________

Highlights the dynamics EXAMPLE & SUMMARY:

within families, emphasizing _______________________
FAMILY
love, conflicts, and the _______________________
impact of relationships on _______________________
AFILYM personal growth. It can _______________________
explore different family _______________________
structures and values. _______________________

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 Examines the moral choices EXAMPLE & SUMMARY:
GOOD VS. EVIL characters make and the _______________________
consequences of those _______________________
ODGO vs. EILV choices. It encourages _______________________
students to reflect on ethical _______________________
decision-making and the _______________________
complexities of morality. _______________________

Deals with the emotional EXAMPLE & SUMMARY:

LOSS & GRIEF impact of losing someone or _______________________
something important. It _______________________
LSSO & IERGF teaches about coping _______________________
mechanisms, the grieving _______________________
process, and the eventual _______________________
healing that may occur. _______________________

Illustrates the importance of EXAMPLE & SUMMARY:

PERSEVERANCE determination and resilience _______________________
in the face of obstacles. _______________________
CERERPENASEV Characters overcome _______________________
challenges through _______________________
persistence and a positive _______________________
mindset. _______________________

Explores themes of EXAMPLE & SUMMARY:

diversity, tolerance, and _______________________
ACCEPTANCE
recognition of others who _______________________
may be different. It _______________________
APTACCECEN encourages empathy and _______________________
understanding of various _______________________
perspectives. _______________________

EXAMPLE & SUMMARY:

COMING OF Focuses on the transition
_______________________
from childhood to adulthood.
AGE Characters often undergo
_______________________
_______________________
ICONGM OF AEG personal growth,
_______________________
self-discovery, and the
_______________________
challenges of maturing.
_______________________

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