1. Sentence Structure:
* Simple Sentences: One independent clause (e.g., "The cat sat on the mat.")
* Compound Sentences: Two or more independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction (e.g., "The cat sat on the mat, and the dog chased the ball.")
* Complex Sentences: One independent clause and one or more dependent clauses (e.g., "Because the cat sat on the mat, the dog couldn't get close.")
* Compound-Complex Sentences: Two or more independent clauses and at least one dependent clause (e.g., "The cat sat on the mat, but the dog, who was very playful, still chased the ball.")
2. Paragraph Structure:
* Topic Sentence: The main idea of the paragraph, usually the first sentence.
* Supporting Sentences: Sentences that develop and explain the topic sentence.
* Transitional Phrases: Words or phrases that connect ideas between sentences and paragraphs.
* Conclusion: A final sentence that summarizes the main point of the paragraph.
3. Figurative Language:
* Metaphor: A comparison between two unlike things without using "like" or "as" (e.g., "He is a lion in battle.")
* Simile: A comparison between two unlike things using "like" or "as" (e.g., "He is as strong as a lion.")
* Personification: Giving human qualities to inanimate objects or animals (e.g., "The wind whispered secrets.")
* Hyperbole: Exaggeration for effect (e.g., "I'm so hungry I could eat a horse.")
* Imagery: Sensory details that create a vivid picture in the reader's mind (e.g., "The sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple.")
4. Diction (Word Choice):
* Formal: Elevated and complex language, often used in academic writing and formal speeches.
* Informal: Everyday language, often used in personal writing and casual conversation.
* Slang: Informal words and phrases used by a particular group of people (e.g., "chill," "dope.")
* Jargon: Specialized vocabulary used by professionals in a particular field (e.g., "algorithm" in computer science).
5. Syntax (Sentence Structure):
* Sentence Length: The length of sentences can vary depending on the desired effect.
* Sentence Order: The order of words in a sentence can affect meaning and emphasis.
* Punctuation: Punctuation marks (e.g., periods, commas, semicolons) guide the reader and create different rhythms and pauses.
6. Point of View:
* First Person: The narrator is a character in the story, using "I" or "we."
* Second Person: The narrator directly addresses the reader, using "you."
* Third Person: The narrator is an outside observer, using "he," "she," "it," or "they."
7. Tone: The author's attitude toward the subject matter, which can be conveyed through diction, sentence structure, and figurative language.
8. Theme: The central idea or message that the author is trying to convey.
9. Style: The author's individual way of using language, which can be influenced by factors such as their background, education, and personal preferences.