1. Plot Terms
8th Grade Language arts

2. Rl.8.3 Learning Goal
I can ANALYZE HOW particular lines of DIALOGUE or INCIDENTS in a text PROPEL THE ACTION, reveal aspects of character, or provoke a decision.

3. exposition
Introduction; serves to introduce situations and characters and provide background/build up for the inciting force

4. Inciting force/initiating event
The 'tipping point'-- this is the event that begins the main conflict (the first domino!). It should end with the resolution, if there is one.

5. Rising Action
Builds tension, adds complication between the initiating event and the climax.

6. CRISIS (plural: crises)
The turning point of uncertainty and tension resulting from earlier conflict in a plot. At the moment of crisis in a story, it is unclear if the protagonist will succeed or fail in his struggle.
The crisis usually leads to or overlaps with the climax of a story, though some critics use the two terms synonymously.

7. Climax
A turning point; often very exciting. The resolution is coming, and we can see it on the horizon-- the crisis is at its point of greatest intensity.

8. Falling action
Events after the climax which lead to the resolution.

9. Resolution/denouement
When the crisis/conflict is resolved. Resolution or clarification takes place here.