Test your understanding of narrative structure and story tension
The chapter identifies two functions: "1. The story arc is a small collection of vocabulary words that help readers figure out where there are in a story. 2. Over time, the story gets more (and less) intense. The story arc also measures that intensity over time."
The chapter defines narrative tension as "the suspense of not knowing what happens next in a story. It's what sustains the reader's interest and keeps them turning pages." Tension can come from relationships, tasks, mysteries, or surprises.
The chapter states that narrative tension "Typically, it has to do with the consequences our characters may face if things go wrong." This is what creates the stakes and keeps readers engaged.
Exposition provides "Background information" and "establishes what we need to know to understand the big picture." It also "plants narrative seeds which can 'bloom' later in the story."
The chapter notes that exposition "plants narrative seeds which can 'bloom' later in the story." This foreshadowing technique sets up elements that will become important later in the narrative.
The chapter states that "Once conflict is established, the rising action begin." At this point, there is tension in the story, and we begin to understand characters' intentions and obstacles.
During rising action, "This helps us understand characters' intentions and the obstacles that stand in their way. And more importantly, what choices they make to try to overcome those obstacles."
The climax is "The height of the action, aka breaking point, boiling point, or turning point." The chapter emphasizes that "In the climax, a character (usually the protagonist) will make a choice that will determine the outcome."
The chapter explains that "Falling action gives the audience the chance to recover from the intensity of the climax." This provides a necessary break after the story's most intense moment.
The chapter states that "Resolution ties up any loose ends." This final part of the story arc provides closure by addressing remaining questions or unresolved elements from the narrative.