Identifying the Elements of A Plot Diagram Student Notes

Plot Diagram 3 4 2 1 5

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.

1. Exposition This usually occurs at the beginning of a short story. Here the characters are introduced. We also learn about the setting, the where and when, of the story. Most importantly, we are introduced to the main conflict (main problem).

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

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.

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

5. Resolution The story comes to a reasonable ending.

Additional Plot and Setting Elements Conflict Internal External Foreshadowing Suspense Flashback Mood

Conflict: a problem or struggle for the main character Internal Inside a character’s heart or mind External Outside of the character Can be against nature, another character, or a group of people

Foreshadowing Clues that hint at what will happen later in the plot Used to help readers stay interested Builds suspense

Suspense Uncertainty or anxiety felt about what is going to happen next in a story Writer’s create suspense in the following ways: Create interesting characters who are involved in conflicts which you can relate Created when writers slow down, speed up or interrupt plot events through flashback and flash-forward

Flashback & Mood The interruption of a current scene with a scene from an earlier time Flashback is used to: Deepen the understanding of a situation Reveal details of a character’s past Mood The atmosphere of a story The readers emotional reaction Created through details and descriptions of the setting, etc.

Mood The atmosphere of a story