Identifying the Elements of Plot

Student Notes

Plot Diagram

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1

3

4

5

Plot (definition)

• sequence of events in a story

• usually built around conflict

Conflict

External Conflict:

• The struggle between a character and an outside force.

Internal Conflict:

• A struggle within a character’s mind. (A character must deal opposing thoughts or feelings).

Types of Conflict

Character vs Nature

Character vs Society

Character vs Self

•Internal Conflict

Character vs. Character

•External Conflict

1. Exposition• Sets the stage for the story. Characters are

introduced, and the setting is described.• Most importantly, we are introduced to the main

conflict (main problem).

2. Rising Action• Occurs as the story continues. The conflict begins to unfold,

the plot becomes more complex and problems and complications arise.

• Suspense builds as the characters struggle to find solutions to the conflict.

3. Climax• This is the most exciting moment or the

turning point of the story. Usually the main character comes face to face with the conflict. The main character will change in some way.

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.

Putting It All Together1. Exposition

2. Rising Action

3. Climax

4. Falling Action

5. Resolution

Beginning of Story

Middle of Story

End of Story

What is the setting?

• the place where and the time when the story happens

• can be real or imaginary

• Characters interact with the setting to show and tell a story.

• Setting helps the reader share what the characters see, hear, smell, and touch.

You can’t always get what you want!

What is a Theme?

Theme: Life lesson, meaning, moral, or message about life or human nature that is communicated by a literary work.

In other words…Theme is what the story teaches readers.

Cinderella

1. Exposition: ____________

2. Setting:_____________

3. Characters:___________

4. Potential conflict(s)____________

5. Draw a plot diagram for this familiar fairy tale with a partner(s). (rising action, climax, falling action, resolution