How to write a short story

Page
1

Slide 1

Elements of a Short Story

Slide 2

Definition of a Short Story

Tells about a single event or experience

Fictional (not true)

500 to 15,000 words in length

It has a beginning, middle, and end

Creates an impression on the reader

Slide 3

Elements of a Short Story

Setting

Characterization

Plot

Conflict

Climax

Resolution

Theme

Point of view

Slide 4

Short Story Vocabulary

Setting:Tells the reader where and when the story takes place.

Slide 5

Short Story Vocabulary

Characterization: Creation of imaginary people who appear to be real to the reader. The writer gives information about the characters in the story.

Slide 6

Short Story Vocabulary

Plot: A series of events through which the writer reveals what is happening, to whom, and why.

Slide 7

Short Story Vocabulary

Conflict: Is a problem in the story that needs to be resolved.

Slide 8

Short Story Vocabulary

Climax: When the action comes to its highest point of conflict.

Slide 9

Short Story Vocabulary

Resolution: The story’s action after the climax until the end of the story. The “conclusion” of the story.

Slide 10

Short Story Vocabulary

Theme: The story’s main ideas. The “message” the writer intends to communicate by telling the story.

Slide 11

Short Story Vocabulary

Point of view: The position of the narrator of the story and what the writer sees from that vantage point.

Slide 12

Elements of a Short Story

Setting

Characterization

Plot

Conflict

Climax

Resolution

Theme

Point of view

Slide 13

Short Story

Great writers are able to use the elements of the short story with such precision that the reader is caught up in the action of the story. This is a mark of a good story and our goal as a writer.