1. The Plot Thickens: Narrative Structure!
UNIT 1
WHAT MAKES A GREAT STORY?

2. Academic Vocabulary
Analyze: v. to separate or break into parts and examine
Element: n. one necessary or basic part of a whole
Infer: v. to decide based on evidence r knowledge; to draw a conclusion
Sequence: n. the chronological, causal, or logical order in which one thing follows another
* Not all plots go in a specific order, those plots are called non-linear. An author may use flashbacks, interruptions in the story to tell about a previous event, or foreshadowing, dropping clues in the text to hint at complications that may happen later in the story, to build suspense.
Structure: n. something constructed or built, such as a building

3. Quick Write Part I
Think of a book you’ve read or movie you’ve seen recently. Write a few sentences about the elements that made the story enjoyable for you, using at least two Academic Vocabulary words in your response.
5 mins

4. Every (good) plot has to have a conflict!
Plot: the series of events that make up a story
Every (good) plot has to have a conflict!
Conflict: a struggle between opposing forces
Internal Conflict
External Conflict

5. Plot Structure at a Glance
Exposition: “exposes” the reader to the setting and characters, introduces the conflict
Rising Action: presents complications that intensify the conflict and builds the suspense
Climax: the turning point of the story and the moment of greatest suspense; makes the outcome of the conflict clear
Falling Action: eases the suspense, reveals the outcome, and how the main character resolves the conflict
Resolution: reveals the final outcome and ties up loose ends

6. 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).

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

8. 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.

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

10. 5. Resolution
The story comes to a reasonable ending.

11. 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

12. Unit 1 Reading Strategy VISUALIZE!
Form images of the story’s setting and characters
To visualize a story:
Pay special attention to descriptions and word choices
Look for sensory details, ones that appeal to one or more of your senses
Reread lengthy descriptions to catch details you might have missed

13. What does it take to be a survivor?
Quick Write Part II
What does it take to be a survivor?
Think about movies you’ve seen or books you’ve read in which one person survives against the odds. What qualities or abilities do survivors share? Write down a list like the one on the left of qualities a person needs to survive.
5 mins