SUSPENSE - Plain Local Schools

SUSPENSE Take good notes on the elements of suspense!

Descriptions of Suspense  The uncertainty or anxiety we feel about what is going to happen next in a story.  Page-turning pace that keeps readers awake just to turn the next page.

Characteristics of Suspense  Reader wonders what will happen next.  Reader wonders when the next plot surprise will spring out at them.  Reader wonders how the character will resolve their conflicts.

Elements of Suspense  Each scene, chapter, event ends on a “hook” to lure readers to the next.  High drama and emotion for both the characters, and if successful, the reader too.

Elements of Suspense ctd.  much uncertainty surrounding the main suspect or there is more than one.  The reader must get to know the villain as well as they know the hero(ine).  unexpected twists and flashes of insight for both the characters and the reader.

Elements of Suspense ctd.  hardly ever any coincidences.  The hero(ine) takes an active role in tracking down the pieces of the puzzle.  The timeline is short and the hero(ine) is in constant and ever-increasing peril.  The climactic end is the result of hero(ine) solving the mystery and giving the villain his do.

Elements of Suspense ctd.  The hero(ine) has help from any number of people.  Foreshadowing is used so the reader won’t want to wait to find out if it is true.  The weather reflects the emotions and attitudes of the characters.

Elements of Suspense ctd.  All five senses are represented  The readers understand the villains motives, even if the characters do not.  Red herrings are used to throw the hero(ine) and the reader off track.

Let’s Get to Work!  Use these notes to create a storyboard of “The Cask of Amontillado”.  Draw a picture for all 6 frames with an example of an element of suspense.  Write a caption that identifies the suspense element from your notes.  Color it!  Finish for homework!