Devices Flashcards
Alliteration
A repetition of consonants that can create mood or add effect or repetition
Ambiguity
Leaves the reader with double meaning and can leave the reader with options to consider
Anecdote
A short interesting or amusing story, used to paint picture or help the reader identify with the idea or theme
Antithesis
A statement of two opposed elements (eg. Keep your mouth closed and your eyes open - it is giving the reader a warning by alerting them that their mouths can get them in trouble
Apostrophe
Can direct the readers attention or focus to something that the writer is trying to highlight such as “I’m planning to write a book”, I can’t believe it’s snowing again”. The 1st brings attention to who is planning it and the 2nd to the negative emotion
Assonance
Repetition of vowel sounds for effect, sometimes creating a sense of sound that may be associated with Onomatopoeia and causes an aural experience.
Example: Clap your hands and stomp your feet
Atmosphere
Created through: the use of adjectives, adverbs, sensory appeal and description in general
Clusters of three
Use of the same phrase/diction 3 or more times in one text such as: “I had a dream”, “me, myself and I”. Used for effect to draw attention to something
Contractions
A shortened version of the spoken and written forms of a word.
Example: he’ll for he will- it can add a light informal/friendly tone to writing
Commas
Can be used as a pause for breath or for dramatic effect. It can be grammatical and assist in sentence structure or be used to create effect to create suspense
Anaphora
the repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses.
Example: Lincoln’s “we cannot dedicate—we cannot consecrate—we cannot hallow—this ground”
Effect: amplifies idea, has emotional impact, makes speech memorable
