Plot Literary Terms

1. Plot Literary Terms

2. Plot
the series of events that make
up the story
Synonym: story line

3. Exposition
introduces the characters,
setting, and background
Synonym – explanation or
description

4. Narrative Hook
grabs the reader’s
attention
Synonym – “catch”

6. Rising Action
the series of events that
lead up to the climax
Synonym – “up”

7. Climax
the highest point of interest in
the story
Synonym – turning point,
peak

8. Falling Action
the series of events that lead
to the end of the story
Synonym – “down”

9. Resolution
the end of the story,
loose ends are tied up
Synonym – outcome

10. Cause and Effect
each event leads to or causes
the next event to happen
Synonym – domino effect;
chain reaction

11. Suspense
the feeling of anxiety or
uncertainty about the outcome
Synonym – uncertainty;
anticipation; nervousness

12. Foreshadowing
clues that suggest what will
happen next
Synonym – foretell; forecast;
predict