5th Grade Reading & Language Arts — Literature and Composition — Writing for God's Glory
Students will identify and understand the key literary elements: setting, characters, plot, conflict, and theme.
Every great story is built from key elements. The setting is where and when the story takes place. Characters are the people or creatures in the story. The plot is the sequence of events that make up the story.
Conflict is the problem or struggle the characters face. It drives the story forward and makes it interesting. The theme is the main message or lesson the author wants readers to understand.
The Bible is full of powerful stories that use all of these elements. The story of David and Goliath has a vivid setting (the Valley of Elah), memorable characters, a dramatic conflict, and a clear theme: trusting God gives us courage.
When we read stories, identifying these elements helps us understand them more deeply. Good readers don't just follow what happens — they think about why it happens and what it means.
Choose a favorite Bible story. Create a chart listing its setting, main characters, plot events (beginning, middle, end), conflict, and theme. Draw a scene from the story and label the literary elements.