1. Identifying the Elements of A Plot Diagram

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. Basically, plot is… What happens in the story, in the order that it happens. First, decides to see the pyramids in Egypt. Then, Joe encounters an evil Sphinx. Finally, Joe reaches the pyramids he wanted to see.

5. 1. Exposition This usually occurs at the beginning of a story. Characters & setting are introduced. We are also introduced to the main conflict/problem.

6. There was a young man named Joe. He lived far away from the pyramids that he had grown up hearing about. To see them was his life-long dream. One day, Joe decided to set off on a long journey to Egypt so that he could see the beautiful pyramids.

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

8. Joe traveled day and night so that he could fulfill his dream. One day, he came to an unfamiliar city. Sitting outside of the city’s wall was a giant creature.

9. It had the head of a man and the body of a lion. This was the Sphinx. What Joe didn’t know was that the Sphinx was evil and ate men who could not answer his riddles.

10. 3. Climax The turning point of the story; usually, the main character confronts a conflict. The main character will change in some way.

11. The Sphinx told Joe that if he wanted to pass, he would have to solve a riddle. “If you give it food, it will grow. If you give it water, it will die,” the Sphinx said. “If you answer correctly, you can see the pyramids. If you fail, I will eat you.” Joe thought for a moment. He then smiled and said, “Evil Sphinx, you will not eat me today. The answer is a fire.”

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

13. As he made his way past the evil Sphinx, Joe ducked his head and secretly smiled. Joe decided that when dealing with monsters, it is best to keep a cool head. He sure was glad he paid attention to that riddle his…

14. …teacher had talked about in school! The sphinx was angry, but could do nothing but let Joe pass.

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

16. In the distance, Joe could see the magnificent pyramids he had been dreaming about. He lifted his eyes all the way to the top, and took a deep breath. Some things were definitely worth the risk, and the wait.

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