The Importance of Setting
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Objective
I can analyze how setting contributes to the meaning of a story.
Part 1 of 4
Warm-up video
TED-Ed · 4:36Vetted channel
We don't generate video — this one is by TED-Ed on YouTube. The practice questions and exit ticket below were drafted by AI for this objective, and every question is editable in the teacher guide.
Part 2 of 4
Key concepts
3 concepts
- 1
According to H.P. Lovecraft, the strongest kind of fear is fear of the unknown, which writers can harness by leaving the audience hanging in anticipation.
- 2
To build suspense, authors can limit the point of view, choose the right setting and imagery, and play with style and form.
- 3
Two techniques for creating suspense are dramatic irony, where the audience knows something the characters don't, and the cliffhanger, which cuts off right before a crucial revelation.
Part 3 of 4
Practice
3 questions
Which of the following is NOT a technique mentioned in the video for creating suspense?
According to the video, which setting is often used to create suspense due to its ability to limit visibility and restrict movement?
Part 4 of 4
Exit ticket
Quick comprehension check
“Explain how the setting of an old mansion with winding halls and secret passageways can contribute to the suspense and meaning of a horror story.”
Sample answer included in the free materials
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Teacher guide, student handout, and slides — free, in Google Docs format
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