The Elements of Plot Climax Falling Action Exposition Resolution Rising Action

Part 1: Exposition Definition: the beginning of the story Purpose: to introduce the Setting and Characters to the reader

Exposition: Setting & Characters Setting: The time and place in which the story happens. Characters Protagonist: the main character; can be a man, woman, mythical creature, etc. Antagonist: the opposition to the main character; can be a man, woman, creature, society, or the main character himself.

Part 2: Rising Action Definition: The events in a story that lead up to the Climax. Purpose: To build suspense and keep the reader interested.

Part 3: Climax Definition: The turning point in a story; when the Main Conflict reaches its peak. NOTE: several conflicts can exist within a single story, but there is always one MAIN conflict between the Protagonist and the Antagonist. Purpose: To answer the “big question” in the story.

Climax: Types of Conflicts There are four types of conflicts a protagonist can encounter. Man vs. Man - one character against another Man vs. Society - one character against a group, a custom, or an ideal. Man vs. Nature - one character against the elements Man vs. Self - one character against himself or something inside of him.

Part 4: Falling Action Definition: The events that occur as a direct result of the Climax. Purpose: To answer all remaining questions in the story and lead the reader towards the ending.

Part 5: Resolution Definition: The end of the story. Purpose: To show the reader where the Protagonist (and other major characters) are at the end of the story.

Review Exposition Setting Protagonist/Antagonist Rising Action Climax Man vs. Man Man vs. Society Man vs. Nature Man vs. Self Falling Action Resolution

Review Climax Falling Action Exposition Resolution Rising Action Setting: Time and Place Protagonist: Main Character Antagonist: Main Character’s Opposition