1. SHORT STORY TERMS
THE PLOT

2. What is the plot? The plot is the sequence of events in a story
The plot is made up of major events and happenings in the story from the beginning (the exposition) to the end (the resolution)

3. The Plot Diagram

4. Exposition The beginning of the story
The exposition establishes the setting (where and when the story takes place) and introduces the characters.
The conflict (the problem) is also usually introduced in the exposition

5. Rising Action
Rising action is the events in the story that move the plot along by adding complications or expanding the conflict
Rising action builds suspense to a climax, the most intense part of the story

6. Climax The most intense moment of the story
The moment when the reader’s interest and emotional intensity reach the highest point
Also referred to as “The Turning Point”

7. Falling Action
Falling action is the events that happen after the climax, but before the end of the story
The climax is getting solved
Sets up the end of the story

8. Resolution The end of the story
How the story ends as a result of the character(s) does or discover during the climax
The conflict is usually resolved
Loose ends are usually tied up

9. The Short Story Most short stories follow this plot line
The plot line can also be seen in novels, movies, and television shows

10. When You Read… Look for these elements as you read
Identify all the parts of the short story: The Exposition, The Rising Action, The Climax, The Falling Action, and The Resolution
Identifying these elements will help you determine what the story is about, what is happening in the story, and what might happen later on in the story