Drama Terminology

Front

The main problem or struggle that takes place in a work.

Back

conflict

Tags

CCSS.L.2.4E

CCSS.L.3.4D

CCSS.L.6.4C

CCSS.L.7.4C

CCSS.L.8.4C

Front

Typically written at the beginning, and usually gives the time and place.

Back

setting

Tags

CCSS.RL.1.3

CCSS.RL.2.1

CCSS.RL.4.3

CCSS.RL.5.3

CCSS.RL.6.3

Front

Separates the play into large chunks. Beginning can be set in a different place and can be set further ahead in time.

Back

act

Tags

CCSS.RL.4.10

CCSS.RL.4.5

CCSS.RL.4.7

CCSS.RL.5.10

CCSS.RL.5.2

Front

The person telling the story.

Back

narrator

Tags

CCSS.RL.3.3

CCSS.RL.4.3

CCSS.RL.5.3

CCSS.RL.5.5

CCSS.RL.6.3

Front

The message or lesson the playwright seeks to share with the audience.

Back

theme

Tags

CCSS.L.4.6

CCSS.RI.3.4

CCSS.RI.4.4

CCSS.RI.5.4

CCSS.W.4.2D

Front

Directions for the actor, typically written in parentheses. Refers to movements of characters or tell inner thoughts or feelings of characters. Might also include a description of the clothing of the characters and props that could be used by cast.

Back

Stage directions

Tags

CCSS.RL.3.10

CCSS.RL.4.10

CCSS.RL.4.5

CCSS.RL.4.7

CCSS.RL.5.10

Front

How text or part of a text makes the reader feel.

Back

mood

Tags

CCSS.RL.2.4

CCSS.RL.3.4

CCSS.RL.4.4

CCSS.RL.5.4

CCSS.RL.6.4

Front

The author of a piece of drama.

Back

playwright

Tags

CCSS.RL.3.5

CCSS.RL.4.10

CCSS.RL.4.5

CCSS.RL.4.7

CCSS.RL.5.2

Front

Each word spoken by the member of the cast. Helps the audience or reader learn about relationships.

Back

dialogue

Tags

CCSS.RL.2.6

CCSS.RL.8.3

Front

Includes the series of events that take place in the drama. Usually structured in acts and/or scenes.

Back

plot

Tags

CCSS.RL.3.10

CCSS.RL.4.10

CCSS.RL.4.5

CCSS.RL.4.7

CCSS.RL.5.10