Narration and Description Quiz

Narration

A rhetorical mode that tells a story to make a point or convey a message.

Description

A rhetorical mode that uses sensory details to create a vivid picture for the reader.

Purpose of Narration

To entertain, engage the reader, and subtly present an argument, point, or theme.

Subtle Argument

An argument that is present but not obvious—reader notices it only if they look for it.

Audience Awareness

Understanding the reader's prior knowledge and expectations to decide how much detail/background to include.

Central Conflict

The main problem or struggle in a narrative; should appear early to keep engagement.

Pacing

How quickly or slowly a narrative moves; controlled by adding or reducing detail.

Varying Pace

Slowing down for important moments and summarizing unimportant events quickly.

Chronological Order

Presenting events in time order; can be rearranged to increase tension or impact.

Plot Manipulation

Changing the order of events to enhance storytelling or make the narrative more effective.

Selection of Detail

Choosing details that support the plot, conflict, and purpose of the narrative.

Sensory Detail

Words or images that appeal to the five senses (sight, sound, touch, taste, smell).

Imagery

Descriptive language that evokes sensory experience for the reader.

Objective Description

Factual, neutral, technical description without emotion; focuses on accuracy.

Subjective Description

Emotional, vivid description that creates mood and relies on personal impressions.

Point of View (POV)

The perspective from which the story is told; must remain consistent.

First Person POV

Narrator uses 'I'; personal and subjective perspective.

Third Person POV

Narrator uses 'he,' 'she,' or 'they'; can be more neutral or distant.

Conflict First Rule

A narrative is stronger when the conflict is introduced quickly.

Purpose of Description

To help the reader visualize and emotionally connect with a scene, object, or moment.

Mood

The emotional feeling created in the reader.

Tone

The writer's attitude toward the subject.

Autobiographical Narrative

A true story about the writer's experience, but shaped to make a point.

Not the Literal Event

A narrative essay is crafted and edited—it is not simply the raw experience.

Establishing POV

Helps the reader trust and understand the narrator's perspective.

Manipulating Details

Adding or omitting information to focus the story on its purpose or theme.

Audience Determines Detail

How much background and explanation is needed depends on the reader.

Theme in Narrative

The underlying message or meaning revealed through the story.

Using Stories to Introduce Issues

Narratives can explore difficult topics (e.g., crime, social issues) through storytelling.

Technical Detail

Precise, factual information used in objective description.

Engagement

Keeping the reader interested through conflict, pacing, and detail choices.

Represent Events Clearly

Narrative must depict events logically so the intended point is understandable.