"Good morning Carl," the doctor began. "I'm afraid i have some . . . bad news. it looks like your foot is broken. We'll need to schedule you for surgery as soon as possible"

1) Where does the ellipsis appear?
2) How do you know this is a fictional text?
3) Why might the author have used an ellipsis?

Lesson Page: 9
Answer the questions about ellipses in media.
1) As a literary device, what does an ellipsis indicate?
2) How could you determine whether a director is using an ellipsis in a scene in a film?

3 answers

  1. The ellipsis appears after the word "some" in the sentence, indicating a pause or a hesitation in speech.

  2. This text is likely fictional because it presents a dramatic scenario involving a character named Carl and a medical diagnosis, which often serves as a plot device in stories. Additionally, the context—an unexpected diagnosis and the emotion surrounding it—suggests a narrative rather than a factual report.

  3. The author might have used an ellipsis to create a sense of suspense or tension in the doctor's message. It indicates hesitation or uncertainty, suggesting that the news being delivered is serious and could be distressing for the character receiving it.


Lesson Page: 9 Answers

  1. As a literary device, an ellipsis indicates a pause in thought, a trailing off of speech, or the omission of words. It can also create suspense or suggest that something is left unsaid.

  2. To determine whether a director is using an ellipsis in a scene in a film, watch for moments where the dialogue or action pauses, where time seems to jump ahead without explanation. This might be indicated by a cut in the scene or a sudden change in the setting or context, suggesting that certain events have happened off-screen or that time has passed. Additionally, pacing, music, and visual cues around a particular moment can signal the use of an ellipsis in film.

can you simplify and shorten all of that to 1-2 sentences please?
  1. The ellipsis appears after "some," indicating a pause in the doctor's speech.

  2. The text is likely fictional due to its dramatic scenario and character situation, and the author uses an ellipsis to create suspense or convey hesitation about the serious news being delivered.


Lesson Page: 9 Answers:

  1. An ellipsis indicates a pause in thought or speech, or the omission of words.

  2. In film, a director uses an ellipsis when there is a noticeable pause, jump in time, or abrupt change in scene or dialogue.