English Reviewer

Conflict, Plot, and Characterization

What is characterization?

A: When the author tells you exactly what a character is like.

What is direct characterization?

A: When the author shows a character’s traits through actions, speech, thoughts, looks, or others’ reactions.

What is indirect characterization?

A: Speech – what the character says and how they speak.

What does S in STEAL stand for?

What does T in STEAL stand for?

A: Thoughts – what the character thinks or feels.

What does E in STEAL stand for?

A: Effect on others – how other characters react to the character.

What does A in STEAL stand for?

A: Actions – what the character does.

What does L in STEAL stand for?

A: Looks/Appearance – how the character looks and what it suggests.

Give an example of direct characterization.

A: “Juan is very brave.”

Give an example of indirect characterization.

A: “Juan ran into the burning house to save the cat.”This shows Juan's bravery and willingness to help others, revealing his character traits through his actions.

Which STEAL letter is this? “I hope no one gets hurt today.”

A: Thoughts (T)

Which STEAL letter is this? “Everyone cheered when Ella helped the injured dog.”

A: Effect on others (E)

Which STEAL letter is this? “She wore bright, colorful clothes and always smiled.”

A: Looks/Appearance (L)

Which STEAL letter is this? “I promise I’ll never lie to you again.”

A: Speech (S)

Which STEAL letter is this? “He gave his lunch to a homeless man.”

A: Actions (A)