Introduction to Mystery and Suspense writing

The main message or lesson that the story, poem, or book is trying to communicate.

• supporting detail

• theme

• plot

• point of view

The people, animals, or imaginary beings in the story.

• bias

• humor

• plot

• character

The time and place where the story takes place.

• Central Idea

• Figurative Language

• Genre

• Setting

The reason why the author wrote the story, poem, or book (to entertain, inform, persuade, etc.).

• Character

• Setting

• Author's Purpose

• Point of View

The perspective from which the story is told (first person, third person, etc.).

• Author's Purpose

• Point of View

• Genre

• Plot

The feeling of uncertainty or anticipation that the author creates to keep the reader engaged.

• Pattern of Events

• Humor

• Suspense

• Dialogue

The main point the author wants the reader to understand.

• Central Idea

• Theme

• Plot

• Point of View

The type or category of the story, poem, or book (mystery, romance, science fiction, etc.).

• Fact

• Author's Argument

• Figurative Language

• Genre

Words or phrases that are not meant to be taken literally, but rather to create a certain image or effect (like metaphors, similes, and idioms).

• Figurative Language

• Author's Argument

• Fact

• Opinion

Something that is known to be true and can be proven.

• Analogies

• Bias

• Opinion

• Fact