exposition

The beginning of the story where we meet the characters and learn the setting

rising action

the events that build up the problem leading to the main event

climax

the most pivotal moment in the story, when the major problem is finally faced

falling action

the events that happen right after the climax as things start to wind down

resolution

the ending of the story where the problem is solved and things conclude

plot

the sequence of events in a story from beginning to end

conflict

the problems faced by the character

flashback

when the story goes back in time to show something important

theme

life lesson the author is teaching with the story

chronological order

events occurring in time order

protagonist

the main character (hero/heroine)

antagonist

the character or force working against the main character

subplot

a smaller storyline inside the main plot

foreshadowing

hints about what will happen later