The following terms should be mastered for the test:
- Noun (pronoun, proper noun, common noun)
- Verb
- Coordinating conjunction (FANBOYS)
- Adverb
- Setting
- Theme
- Characterization (direct, indirect)
- Character Types (dynamic, round, static, flat)
- Point of view/narrative perspective
- Metaphor
- Simile
- Personification
- Diction
- Foreshadowing
- Symbol/symbolism
- Types of conflict
- Climactic Structure (exposition, inciting incident, rising action, climax, denouement, resolution)
The long answer question at the end of the test will be a mini-essay of three paragraphs, wherein you will write a literary analysis of one story. Your paragraphs should include the following information:
- Paragraph 1: provide the name of the author, the name of the story, identify the narrative perspective, what type(s) of conflict exist in the story, and other notable features/literary devices that enhance the work.
- Paragraph 2: Explain/summarize the story with regards to its climactic structure, identifying each component as you move through the plot.
- Paragraph 3: the theme(s) of the story, and what message you believe the author intended to relay to readers through their work.
You should have a basic understanding of the following stories:
- “They’re Made Out of Meat” – Terry Bisson
- “Popular Mechanics” – Raymond Carver
- “Shaving” – Leslie Norris
- “Penny in the Dust” – Ernest Buckler
- “Hills Like White Elephants” – Ernest Hemingway
- “The Cop and the Anthem” – O. Henry
Good luck, my blueberries.
