exposition
the beginning of the plot where the author introduces the reader to characters, setting, narrator, and point of view
rising action
the second part of a plot diagram where events begin and build suspense and create conflict
climax
the third part of a plot diagram; the turning point of the story
falling action
the fourth part of a plot diagram with no new events or plot points; after the crisis and before the resolution
resolution/denouement
the fifth part of a plot diagram where conflict is resolved and the story concludes
foreshadowing
a hint of things to come
internal conflict
a character struggles with his or her own opposing desire, beliefs (man vs. self)
external conflict
a character struggles against an outside force (man vs. man, nature, society)
mood/atmosphere
the feeling the reader gets from a piece of literature