7 Annotations Per Chapter: Signposts and Elements of Fiction

This set of vocabulary flashcards covers the six literary signposts and six elements of fiction used for annotating chapters in a novel.

Contrasts and Contradictions (CC)

A signpost where a character does something that contrasts with what you'd expect or contradicts his earlier acts or statements.

Aha Moment (AM)

A signpost where a character realizes, understands, or finally figures something out.

Tough Question (TQ)

A signpost where a character asks herself a very difficult question.

Words of the Wiser (WW)

A signpost where a character (probably older and wiser or more experienced) takes the main character aside and offers serious advice.

Again and Again (AA)

A signpost involving a word, phrase, or situation mentioned over and over.

Memory Moment (MM)

A signpost where the author interrupts the action to tell you about a memory.

Characterization (CH)

An element of fiction involving anything having to do with a character's thoughts, behaviors, motivations, beliefs, desires, and personality.

Setting (S)

The WHEN and WHERE of a novel that gives the reader an idea of where the action is taking place.

Conflict (CON)

The 'problems' or challenges of a novel, traditionally described as Man vs. Man, Man vs. Self, Man vs. Nature, or Man vs. God.

Genre (G)

The type of novel categorized by conventions (traits), such as Horror, Thriller, Fantasy, family Drama, Coming-of-Age, or Young Adult.

Divergent Genre Traits

Specific conventions to look for in the novel Divergent: Government Control, Technological Control, Environmental Disaster, Survival, and Unexpected Hero.

Theme (TH)

The main message(s), lesson(s), or 'big ideas' of a work, such as Friendship or Good vs. Evil.

Foreshadowing (F)

When the reader is shown a 'clue' or something happens that acts as a 'heads-up' that it will affect the story later on.