Unit TermsTerm Definition Example

Direct Characterization When the author or writer makes a direct statement about a character

Theodore was a kind and intelligent man

Indirect Characterization

The writer or narrator reveals a character’s traits through that individuals words, thoughts, and actions, as well as what other characters think or say about him/her

Theodore helped Miranda pick up the papers she dropped; he saw that she had failed her Math test and offered to tutor her since he was earning an A in Math.

Unit Terms ContinuedTerm Definition Example

Epic a long narrative poem about the adventures of gods or heroes.

The Odyssey is an epic!

Epic Hero a larger than life hero from history who undertakes a dangerous voyage and demonstrates traits that are valued by society (courage, loyalty, honor)

Odysseus

Epic Simile Elaborate comparison that may extend for several linesMay use the words “like,” “as,” “just as,” or “so”

And it was like a mast / a lugger of twenty oars, / broad in the beam---/ a deep-sea-going craft—might carry: / so long, so big around, it seemed.

Unit Terms ContinuedTerm Definition Example

Summary Is stating only the main ideas of a selection in a logical sequence and in your own words. When you summarize a story, include the main characters, the setting, the conflict, important plot details, and the resolution.

Direct quote:“The thousand injuries of Fortunato I had borne as I best could.”Summary:I put up with Fortunato’s bad behaviors all I could.

Paraphrase Is putting something into your own words. Unlike a summary, a paraphrase is usually about the same length as the original passage.

Direct quote:“The thousand injuries of Fortunato I had borne as I best could.”Paraphrase: I had put up with the many wrongs Fortunato did to me as well as I could.

Tips for…Tips for Paraphrasing

1. Read the entire passage, not just a line.

2. Replace words that you know have blank.

3. Consider changing the word order so that it makes sense.

4. Be sure your paraphrase is the same length as the original.

Tips for Summarizing

1. Only include important ideas or events.

2. Leave out insignificant details.

3. Be sure your summary is shorter than the original.

Unit Terms ContinuedTerm Definition Example

Simile Comparing two unlike things using the words like or as

Tim’s voice booms like the loud speaker.

Metaphor Making a direct comparison of two unlike things

The boy is a speeding bullet racing toward the finish line

Personification Giving human qualities to nonhuman things.

I woke up to the sun smiling down at me.

Alliteration The repetition of constant sounds or letters.

The sea shells sang sweet songs.