1. Identifying the Elements of A Plot Diagram
Student Notes

2. Plot Diagram 1 4 3 5 2 Climax Rising Action Falling Action
Resolution or Dénouement 6
Narrative Hook 1 2
Exposition

3. Plot (definition)
Plot is the organized pattern or sequence of events that make up a short story or novel. Every plot is made up of a series of incidents that are related to one another.

4. 1. Exposition
This usually occurs at the beginning of a short story. The characters are introduced and we learn about the setting and background information.

5. 2. Narrative Hook
This part of the story introduces the first conflict or problem. This occurrence builds interest or suspense.

6. 3. Rising Action
The rising action is a series of events or problems that lead the main characters to deal with a major conflict. There can be many rising actions in a short story or novel.

7. 4. 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 due to the event.

8. 5. Falling Action
All loose ends of the plot are tied up. The conflict(s) and climax have taken place. There can be more than one falling action

9. 6. Resolution/Dénouement
The story comes to a reasonable ending.

10. Get the Gist:
Use the Get the Gist routine to identify the main idea of your plot notes, and write it in the box on your notes page.
Name the “what.”
Tell the most important information.
Say it in 10 words or less.