What's In Directions: Read each description in every number. Look for the word below that best describes an element of a story. setting, characters, plot, conflict, theme 1. It is a problem or struggle between two people, things or ideas. 2. It is the series of events that make up a story. 3. It is the time and place a story takes place. 4. It is the people, animals or creatures in a story. 5. It is the author's message to the readers.