Realistic Fiction Student Checklist
Criteria
Overall
Explanation
My story has realistic characters, tension, and change.
My story has developed a theme or lesson
Story
Structure
My story is organized in a way that is easy for the
reader to follow along with what is going on.
All elements of plot are included (exposition, rising
action, climax, falling action, resolution)
Lead
My story has a lead that grabs the reader’s attention and
sets us up for the main conflict.
Character
My main character is introduced in the first scene and
the reader can pick up on some of his/her personality
traits. The reader is able to understand the main
character and his/her motivations and struggles.
Conflict
The conflict is clear to the reader and carries throughout
the story.
Climax
The climax represents a turning point for the character.
Resolution
The story has a believable ending and the character has
demonstrated some kind of change.
Point of View I have written my story in first or third point of view
and have kept that perspective throughout the entire
story.
Dialogue
The dialogue in my story helps move the story along.
When I have used dialogue, I have used paragraphs to
distinguish between speakers.
Conventions
I have edited my writing for spelling, capitalization,
grammar, and punctuation.
Yes/No?