Transcript Identifying the Elements of A Plot Diagram

Identifying the
Elements of A
Plot Diagram
Student Notes
Plot Diagram
3
2
1
4
5
Plot
(definition)
• Plot is the organized
pattern or sequence
of events that make
up a story. Every
plot is made up of a
series of incidents
that are related to
one another.
1. Introduction
(Basic Situation/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).
Conflict
A conflict is a struggle between opposing characters or
opposing forces.
The conflict is usually revealed at the beginning of a story
as part of the basic situation.
Conflict
In an external conflict, characters struggle against
something or someone outside themselves.
Internal conflicts happen inside a character’s mind.
Plot: Types of Conflict
Person vs Self
Person vs Nature
Person vs Person
Person vs Society
2. Rising Action
• This part of the story begins to
develop the conflict(s). A building
of interest or suspense occurs.
Suspense
• A feeling of anxiety or fear
created by an author to keep
readers guessing about the
outcome of events.
Suspense
• A “suspending” of our
emotions. We know
something is about to happen,
we just don’t know what or
when.
Foreshadowing
Is One Way to Create Suspense
• A hint or clue
about what is
going to
happen later
in a story.
Foreshadowing
• The use of
foreshadowing
allows a reader to
predict what might
happen later in a
story.
Foreshadowing
• Foreshadowing
creates nervous
anticipation as the
reader waits for
“it” to happen.
3. Climax
• 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.
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 Together
1. Introduction
2. Rising Action
Beginning of
Story
Middle of Story
3. Climax
4. Falling Action
5. Resolution
End of Story