1. Identifying the Elements of A Plot Diagram Student Notes

2. Plot Diagram 2 1 3 4 5

3. 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.

4. 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).

5. 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

6. In an external conflict, characters struggle against something or someone outside themselves. Internal conflicts happen inside a character’s mind. Conflict

7. Plot: Types of Conflict Person vs Nature Person vs Person Person vs Society Person vs Self

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

9. Suspense A feeling of anxiety or fear created by an author to keep readers guessing about the outcome of events.

10. Suspense A “suspending” of our emotions. We know something is about to happen, we just don’t know what or when.

11. Foreshadowing Is One Way to Create Suspense A hint or clue about what is going to happen later in a story.

12. Foreshadowing The use of foreshadowing allows a reader to predict what might happen later in a story.

13. Foreshadowing Foreshadowing creates nervous anticipation as the reader waits for “it” to happen.

14. 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.

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

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

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