1. Identifying the Elements of A Plot Diagram
Student Notes

2. 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.

3. Conflict Conflict is what Makes the Plot happen.
Conflict: The problem in the story.
A struggle between two forces
(Good vs Evil)

4. Protagonist | Antagonist
Protagonist – The main character in a story, play, or novel involved in the main conflict.
The ‘good guy’
Antagonist – The force working against the protagonist in the story.
Usually another main character but doesn’t have to be a person.

5. Point of View Who is telling the story. First Person POV –
The narrator is a character in the story
Third Person POV
The narrator is not a character in the story.

6. Plot Diagram (Freytag)3 4 2 1 5

7. 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).

8. 2. Rising Action
This part of the story begins to develop the conflict(s). A building of interest or suspense occurs.

9. 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.

10. 4. Falling Action
All loose ends of the plot are tied up. The conflict(s) and climax are taken care of.

11. 5. Resolution The conflict is resolved.
Also called the denouement which means the story comes to an end.

12. Putting It All Together
1. Exposition
2. Rising Action
3. Climax
4. Falling Action
5. Resolution
Beginning of Story
Middle of Story
End of Story