Genres
Stories (fiction)
Definition: Made-up narratives about characters and events
Notes:
Short stories can be read in one sitting. A novel is a longer work. A
novella is longer than a short story, but shorter than a novel
Examples: “Number the Stars” by Lois Lowry
“All Summer in a Day” by Ray Bradbury
Literary Terms:
plot, conflict, character, setting, theme, point of view
Poetry
Definition: A type of literature in which words are chosen and arranged in a precise
way to create specific effects.
Notes:
Poets arrange their thoughts in lines. Lines are often grouped into
stanzas.
Examples: “Quilt” by Janet Wong
“Dreams” by Langston Hughes
Literary Terms: form, line, stanza, rhythm, rhyme
Drama
Definition: Stories that are meant to be performed
Notes:
To read drama, you have to visualize in your mind the action
Examples: The Little Princess by Frances Burnett
The Prince and the Pauper by Mark Twain
Literary Terms: plot, character, act, scene, dialogue, stage directions
Nonfiction
Definition: Tells about real people, places, and events
Notes:
You can learn about real people, places, events, and issues that matter
Examples: “Matthew Henson” by Jim Haskins
“The Story of My Life” by Helen Keller
Literary Terms: purpose, organization, main idea, text features
Media
Definition: Communication that reaches many people
Notes:
Media messages influence you life in all kinds of ways
Examples: Smallville (television clip)
Houdini: The Great Escape (documentary)
Literary Terms: medium, message, target audience