Virginia Communication and Literacy Assessment (VCLA) Practice Test

What is meant by 'point of view' in storytelling?

1. The sequence of events

2. The emotional tone of the story

3. The perspective from which a story is told

4. The setting of the story

The correct answer is: The perspective from which a story is told

In storytelling, 'point of view' refers to the perspective from which a story is narrated. This encompasses the narrator's position relative to the events of the story, including their level of knowledge and involvement with the characters and events. The point of view can shape how a reader understands the narrative and can significantly influence their emotional connection to the story. For example, a first-person perspective allows readers to experience events through the eyes of a character, creating intimacy and personal engagement. In contrast, a third-person omniscient perspective provides a broader view, often revealing the thoughts and feelings of multiple characters, thus offering a more comprehensive understanding of the narrative. Having clarity about the point of view is essential for both writers and readers, as it shapes not just the narrative flow but also how themes and character motivations are perceived. The other options each represent different components of storytelling. The sequence of events is about the plot structure; the emotional tone relates to the mood or atmosphere created through word choice and description; and the setting includes the time and place in which a story takes place. While these elements are important aspects of storytelling, they do not encapsulate the meaning of 'point of view.'