This document discusses the five key elements of stories: characters, setting, problem, solution, and theme. It defines each element and provides examples from classic stories like Cinderella. The characters are the people or animals in the story. The setting indicates where and when the story takes place. The problem is the issue or challenge faced by the characters. The solution is how that problem is resolved. The theme or moral is the underlying message of the story. Understanding these basic story elements helps readers learn from and engage with stories.

1. Story Elements
An Early Elementary
Lesson
By Frances Palmateer

2. What are story elements?
Story elements
are the important
parts of a story.
When we pay attention to the story elements it helps us
to learn all we can about a story.

3. There are five story elements
characters
setting
problem
solution
moral or theme
Images from Microsoft clipart

4. Let’s look at
each element
to learn about
it.

5. Characters
Characters are the people in the story.

6. Characters
Characters can
also be animals.
They can also be
objects that act
like people.

7. Examples of Character
• From Cinderella
Cinderella
Step
sisters
Fairy
godmother
The prince

8. Setting
The setting is where and when the story takes
place.

9. Where the story takes place
Enchanted forest
jungle
Cottage in the
woods
farm Big City

10. When the story takes place
Long Ago
In the future
Now

11. Problem
The problem is the situation that the characters
are facing in the story.

12. Problems in Stories
Solving a mystery
facing evil
Being poor
fears
Getting in trouble

13. Solution
The solution is how the characters solve their
problem.

14. Solutions in Stories
Going to
the ball
Doing the
right
thing
Finishing the
task
Facing your
fears
Catching the
bad person

15. Moral or Theme
The moral or theme is the idea that the
runs through the story. It often
teaches a lesson

16. Examples of Themes and Morals
Dreams can come
true
Hard work pays off
Be true to
yourself
True love
conquers all
Good
defeats evil

17. Now that you know
the 5 story elements:
characters, setting,
problem, solution,
and theme, don’t
forget to look for
them when you read.
Happy reading!

18. References
• Images on slides 1,2,3,4,8,11,13,17, the prince on slide 7 and the witch on slide 12
are from Microsoft Office Clip Art © 2006 Microsoft Corporation
• Images on slides 5 and 6 courtesy of Frances Palmateer
• All other images from Print Master Platinum 18.1 by Broderbund ©2010 Encore
Software, Inc.