written by Tamara Hollins, Teaching Assistant

The Major Elements of Fiction: A Brief Overview

This overview lists the major elements of fiction as well as questions that should be asked to determine the effectiveness of the elements in structuring a story and conveying meaning. Note that these elements are not rules which must be followed; after all, the operational word when writing fiction is "creative."

Plot

• How does the action build upon previous action and lead to future action?
• Is the action consistent with the given facts and/or allusions in the creative work?
• Does the subplot relate to the plot?
• How do foreshadowing and flashbacks further or allow for reader comprehension of the plot?

Characterization

• What is the purpose of the characters?
• Are the characters developed?
• Are they supposed to be rounded?
• Can the reader extend the character beyond the story?
• Is the character still believable when acting out of character?

Dialogue

• How does dialogue help to create the character?
• In what ways does dialogue advance or inform the plot?
• What is the subtext of the dialogue?

Description

• How does the description add to or further the plot?
• How is description conveyed (through similes, metaphors, images, etc.)?
• How does description create the mood or atmosphere?

Narration and Dramatization

• Is the narrative linear or experimental, and what are the effects?
• Are the narration and dramatization balanced?
• Should they be?

Point of View and Narrative Distance

• Is the point of view consistent? Should it be?
• Is the point of view effective? How?
• Does the point of view establish narrative distance or does it close the distance between the reader and the characters?

Setting

• What meaning does the setting convey?
• How does the seeing convey meaning?
• How does the setting inform the other fictional elements?
• To what extent does the setting function as character?
• How does the setting create the mood or atmosphere?

Style/Tone

• What type of words does the author use? Why?
• How does the author use these words (prose rhythm, alliteration, assonance, etc.)?
• How is punctuation used? Why?
• Is the tone effective for this type of writing/expression? Why or why not?
• Is it used appropriately? Why or why not?
• Should it be? Why or why not?
• How does the style/tone create the mood or atmosphere?

Reference: Cohen, Richard. Writer's Mind: Crafting Fiction. Illinois: NTC Publishing Group, 1995.

Evaluating Fiction

Evaluating fiction is inherently subjective; however, consideration of the following aspects helps to provide a type of framework for the ambiguity in the grading process.

• The effective presentation of relevant elements of fiction (Does the student demonstrate knowledge of the elements of fiction?)
• The extent to which the author's intent is communicated (How well does the student apply the elements of fiction to make certain points?)
• The degree of revision (Does the student demonstrate the ability to analyze, critique and edit creative work?)