English Keystone Test

Metaphor

A figure of speech that directly compares two unlike things without using 'like' or 'as.'

Tone

The author’s attitude toward the subject or audience, conveyed through word choice and writing style.

Mood

The overall feeling or atmosphere a reader experiences while reading a text.

Direct Characterization

The author explicitly describes a character’s traits.

Indirect Characterization

The author reveals a character’s traits through their actions, thoughts, speech, and interactions with others.

First-Person POV

The narrator is a character in the story and uses 'I' or 'we.'

Third-Person Limited POV

The narrator is outside the story and focuses on one character’s thoughts and feelings.

Third-Person Omniscient POV

The narrator knows the thoughts and feelings of all characters.

Verbal Irony

When a speaker says one thing but means another.

Situational Irony

When the outcome of a situation is the opposite of what is expected.

Dramatic Irony

When the audience knows something that the characters do not.

Allegory

A story, poem, or picture that can be interpreted to reveal a hidden meaning, usually moral, political, or spiritual.

Character vs. Character Conflict

A struggle between two characters.

Character vs. Self Conflict

An internal struggle within a character.

Character vs. Nature Conflict

A struggle between a character and natural forces.

Character vs. Society Conflict

A struggle between a character and societal norms or expectations.

Character vs. Fate/Supernatural Conflict

A struggle against destiny, gods, or supernatural forces.

Symbolism

The use of objects, characters, or events to represent deeper meanings.

Personification

A figure of speech in which human characteristics are given to non-human things.