What term describes the time and/or place where a story occurs?

The correct term that describes the time and/or place where a story occurs is "setting." The setting encompasses all elements that create the backdrop for the narrative, including geographical locations, historical periods, time of day, seasons, and the cultural context in which the characters exist. Understanding the setting is crucial as it influences the mood of the story, shapes the characters' experiences, and provides a framework for the plot's progression.

In contrast, theme refers to the central idea or underlying message expressed in a story, while plot pertains to the sequence of events and actions that take place. Conflict is the struggle between opposing forces that drives the narrative forward. Each of these other terms plays a vital role in storytelling, but none specifically encapsulates the aspect of time and place like setting does.