This document provides an introduction to different genres of literature and their key characteristics. It discusses mysteries, realistic fiction, historical fiction, fantasy/science fiction, fairy tales and folklore, adventure, and tall tales. For each genre, 2-4 characteristic bullet points are provided. The objective is for learners to select, read, and enjoy a variety of texts across these genres. Recommended book titles are listed but not described.
This is the Powerpoint that was used throughout the course of the Novella Unit. It contains each seperate lesson, with definitions, activities, and important things to note
This is the Powerpoint that was used throughout the course of the Novella Unit. It contains each seperate lesson, with definitions, activities, and important things to note
Writing in Different Genres: Why, Why Not, and How ToVincent O'Neil
Presentation outlining some of the reasons why writers might try creating works in more than one genre, complete with definitions, guidance, and examples.
6. Characteristics of
Mysteries
• Usually, something strange happens . . . like
something is stolen or disappears, or worse yet
someone is killed.
• A detective tries to solve the mystery to find out
who did it.
• Clues lead the detective to solve the mystery.
9. Characteristics of Realistic
Fiction
• It seems like it could happen today.
• Characters seem like real people.
• It usually happens in a common place.
12. Characteristics of Historical
Fiction
• The story happens at a DIFFERENT time in
history (WWII, the Wild West, the Depression).
• It could have happened as the story was written.
15. Characteristics of Fantasy or
Science Fiction
• Something in the book happens that
couldn’t happen in real life.
• May include magic, ghosts, and talking
animals.
18. Characteristics of Fairy Tales or
Folklore
• Often begin with “Once upon a time” or end
with “Happily ever after.”
• Include magical characters.
• Characters are “good” or “bad.”
• Are available in many different versions
because of their spoken storytelling
tradition.
24. Characteristics of Tall Tales
• Trickery or cleverness
• Adventure (often from our country’s
westward expansion)
• Larger than life qualities often based on a
real person
• Exaggeration used to make it entertaining
