Narrative Techniques Flashcards
What does analepsis mean?
Flashback
A shift back in time to show past events
Provides backstory explains a characters behaviour or builds tension
Eg “as he walked through the door his memories flooded back”
What does Prolepsis mean
A shift forward in time to hint at future events
Effect:builds suspense or foreshadows significant outcomes
Example:”little did she know this would be the last time she saw the sun”
What is narrative perspective
Definition:the veiw from which the narrative is told
1st person:”I walked through the woods”
I,me,mine,my
2nd person:”you hear a noise”
You
3rd person:”she ran quickly”
They him he she her
Effects the readers connection and emotional engagement
Chronological Vs non-linear structure
Chronological:events happen in order
Non linear:events are mixed through flashbacks or flashforward
Effect: non linear creates mystery suspense or emotional depth
Example: the story jumps between
Past and present to reveal twists
Cyclical structure
Definition:the story begins and ends the same way
Effect:creates a sense of inevitability or reflection
Example:starts with falling asleep ends with falling asleep
Volta
Definition “a sudden shift in tone mood or perspective”
Effect:surprises the reader and changes the direction of the story
Example: it was perfect..
And then it all came crashing down
Persuasive writing DAFOREST
Direct address:”you must act now!”
Alliteration:”Fierce and fiery”
Facts:”studies show 70% of people agree”
Opinions:”in my view”
Retorical questions:”is this the future we want?”
Emotive language:”this heartbreaking…”
Statistics:”1 in 5 people”
Triplets:”fast firey functional”
Anecdotes
Definition:A brief personal story to express a point
Effect:builds trust personalises an argument
Example”when I was a child”
Hyperbole
Definition:exaggeration or emphasis for dramatic effect
Effect: strengthens the argument or emotional appeal
Example:”this is the worst thing that has ever happened
Repetition
Definition: repeating words or phrases
For emphasis
Effect: re-enforces key points make ideas more memorable
Example”we must act now we must we must we must!”
Inclusive language
Definition:”language that involves the reader
Effect:creates a sense of unity and shared purpose
Example:”we all have a role to play”
Counterargument
Definition: acknowledging an argument and providing an opposing view
Effect: strengthens your own argument by addressing the opposition
Example”you like strawberrys however I like blueberries”
Show don’t tell
Definition: Describe feelings, actions, or settings rather than stating them.
Effect: Makes writing more vivid and engaging.
Example: Instead of “She was scared,” write “Her hands trembled as the door creaked open.”
Sensory language
Definition: Language that appeals to the five senses.
Effect: Engages the reader by making the experience more immersive.
Example: “The sweet fragrance of jasmine filled the air, and the soft hum of bees echoed nearby.”
Symbolysim
Definition: Using an object or concept to represent a larger idea.
Effect: Adds depth and meaning to a story.
Example: “The wilting flower in the corner symbolized the fading hope of the town.”
Varied Sentence Structure
Simple Sentence: “He ran.”
Complex Sentence: “As he ran, his thoughts raced through his mind.”
Fragment: “Silence.”
Effect: Controls pacing and creates emotional impact.
Pacing
Definition: The speed at which a story moves.
Effect: Quick pacing builds tension; slow pacing builds atmosphere.
Example: A chase scene with short, rapid sentences for fast pacing, vs. a storm scene with long, detailed sentences to slow down time and increase suspense.
PETER (Argument Analysis)
Point – Identify the key argument.
Evidence – Find quotes that support it.
Technique – Identify the persuasive technique used (DAFOREST, emotive language, etc.).
Effect – Explain how the technique influences the reader.
Reader Response – Discuss how it makes the reader feel or think.
Juxtaposition
Definition: Placing two contrasting ideas next to each other.
Effect: Creates contrast, highlights differences, or adds dramatic impact.
Example: “The storm raged, yet the sun began to break through the clouds.”
Foreshadowing
Definition: Hinting at events to come.
Effect: Builds suspense and prepares the reader.
Example: “The last time I saw her, she was smiling, but something in her eyes told me it wouldn’t last.”
Emotive Language
Definition: Words designed to evoke strong emotions.
Effect: Makes the reader feel a particular way about a topic or character.
Example: “The innocent child was cruelly abandoned, alone in the dark.”
Persuasive Writing Structure
- Hook: Grab attention (question, bold statement).
- Clear Opinion: State your stance on the issue.
- Arguments: Use DAFOREST, facts, and examples.
- Counterargument: Address opposing views and dismiss them.
- Conclusion: Summarize and give a strong call to action.
Counterargument (Addressing the Opposition)
Definition: Acknowledging the other side of the argument.
Effect: Makes the argument more balanced and convincing.
Example: “While some people argue this idea is too costly, it’s clear that the long-term benefits outweigh the initial price.”
