Identifying the Elements of A Plot Diagram

What Is Plot?Plot is the series of related events that make up a story or drama.

• Like links in a chain, each event hooks our curiosity and pulls us forward to the next event.

Plot Diagram

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1. Exposition• This usually occurs at the beginning of a short

story. Here the characters are introduced. We also learn about the setting of the story. Most importantly, we are introduced to the main conflict (main problem).

Plot Structure

• opening of the story

1 Basic situation, or exposition

• characters and their conflicts are introduced

Paul wants to go to an out-of-state university, but his family can only afford to pay the tuition at a local college.

2. Rising Action

• This part of the story begins to develop the conflict(s). A building of interest or suspense occurs.

Plot Structure2 Rising Action (conflict)• The main character takes action but encounters

more problems or complications.

Paul goes to work on a nearby farm to earn extra money. There, he meets Miranda, and the two start dating.

3. Climax (turning point)• This is the turning point of the story.

Usually the main character comes face to face with a conflict. The main character will change in some way.

Plot Structure3 Climax (turning point in the story)• Key scene in the story—the most tense,

exciting, or terrifying moment

• Reveals the outcome of the conflict

Paul and Miranda argue about his leaving for university. Paul must choose to stay or go.

4. Falling Action• All loose ends

of the plot are tied up. The conflict(s) and climax are taken care of.

5. Resolution• The story

comes to a reasonable ending.

Plot Structure4 Resolution, or denouement• Final part of the story

• The conflict is resolved

Paul decides to leave for university. Miranda makes plans to visit him and wishes him well.

Putting It All Together1. Exposition

2. Rising Action

3. Climax

4. Falling Action

5. Resolution

Beginning of Story

Middle of Story

End of Story

Now let’s try it with Charlotte Doyle…

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1. Exposition• In 1832, 13 year old Charlotte Doyle crosses

the Atlantic aboard the Seahawk. She is surprised to learn she is the only passenger and the only female aboard the ship.

2. Rising Action• At first, Charlotte trusts only Captain Jaggery.

However, she soon discovers that he is cruel and slightly mad. She decides to join ranks with the mutinous crew. She has to convince them of her loyalty by climbing the royal yard.

3. Climax (turning point)• When Captain Jaggery puts Charlotte on

trial for murder and finds her guilty, she escapes punishment in a life-and-death struggle with Jaggery.

4. Falling Action• Charlotte is reunited

with her family and finds that the orderly life they have in mind for her no longer feels comfortable.

5. Resolution• Charlotte returns

to the Seahawk and her life at sea.

The End