Narrative Writing Vocabulary

Front

Tyler wakes up on a Saturday, hears sirens, and sees a house on fire across the street.

Back

Exposition—provides background information.

Front

Tyler’s dad says he must take Mr. Molano to the hospital, leaving Tyler to watch 8-year-old Max and baby Tonya. Example of:

Back

inciting incident pushes a character into the main action of the story.

Front

Max cries; Tyler comforts him with a book. Example of:

Back

Rising action—develops the conflict.

Front

Baby Tonya cries; Tyler is unsure how to help.

Back

Climax—point of highest interest or suspense.

Front

Max suggests Tyler walk with Tonya, helping him for a long time.

Back

Falling action—what happens after the climax.

Front

Tyler’s mom is impressed by how well he handled the situation.

Back

Resolution—how the conflict is solved.