1. Identifying the Elements of A Plot Diagram

2. 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.

3. Plot Diagram 2 1 3 4 5

4. 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).

5. 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.

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

7. Plot Structure 2Rising 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.

8. 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.

9. Plot Structure 3Climax (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.

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 story comes to a reasonable ending.

12. Plot Structure 4Resolution, 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.

13. 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

14. Now let’s try it with Charlotte Doyle… 2 1 3 4 5

15. 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.

16. 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.

17. 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.

18. 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.

19. 5. Resolution Charlotte returns to the Seahawk and her life at sea.

20. The End