Students are expected to recognize and analyze the basic components of most literary works, such as setting, plot, characterization, point of view, theme, and tone. Students should differentiate these components, evaluate their function in a literary text, and determine how they interact with each other. Literary elements represent the framework of literary works such as stories (either true or fictitious) fables, and folktales.

Classical texts refer to texts that are widely acknowledged for their outstanding and enduring qualities. Students should be able to identify and evaluate traits that define a classical work of literature such as artistic quality, relevance to multiple generations, or universal appeal. Students are expected to understand that classical texts stand the test of time and are connected to many aspects of their present life. Due to their relative complexity, young readers may be introduced to classical texts through graphic novel versions, simplified editions, or movie adaptations.

Contemporary texts are defined as literature written after World War II through the current day. In other words, contemporary texts refer to literature that is being written in the present time about the present time. Students are expected to recognize and analyze how this type of literature reflects the current events, problems, or viewpoints of modern societies.

In addition to traditional, contemporary, and classical texts, students should identify and evaluate other written works that are recognized as having artistic value and whose main purpose is to entertain the reader. These literary texts are organized in diverse categories of literary genres such as prose fiction, drama, poetry, and literary nonfiction.

the type or class of a work, usually categorized by form, technique, or content Literary genres include tragedy, comedy, poetry, novel, short story, creative/literary nonfiction, etc. and the sub genres of fantasy, science fiction, mystery, horror, satire, etc.; nonfiction genres include biography, essay, memoir, historical text, scientific text, academic reporting, etc.

As students become more proficient readers, the texts they engage with and draw meaning from should become more complex in structure, language, and/or content. Within and across grade levels, students are expected to be exposed to challenging texts that allow them the opportunity to practice and master new skills.

written works that are generally recognized as having artistic value and have the purpose of entertaining the reader (e.g., prose fiction, drama, poetry, and literary nonfiction)

Traditional stories derive from the oldest records of oral and written narratives throughout history (e.g., tales, legends, fairytales, fables, myths, and religious texts). Students should acknowledge the nature and origin of traditional texts as well as their double purpose of explaining a natural phenomenon and providing moral teachings. Fables are an example of traditional texts. A fable is typically a short story that express morals intended to educate readers. Students analyze how this type of literature explains actions and consequences and promotes a practical moral teaching that transcends time (e.g., "Treat others as you want to be treated").