6.3 Plot

Learning Target

• Can you demonstrate understanding of narrative (or story) structure, including exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution?

Elements of a Plot Diagram

As you read your novel, you summarized the main events of the novel concisely and clearly. These summaries will help you to complete a plot diagram. Where do the events you summarized fit?

Exposition: This usually occurs at the beginning of a short story.  Here the characters are introduced.  We also learn about the setting of the story.  Most importantly, we are introduced to the main conflict (main problem).
Rising Action: The plot thickens. Events unfold that may make it seem like the main problem will never be solved! Most of the novel is rising action. This can be many chapters long.
Climax: This is the turning point of the story. Usually the main character comes face to face with the main problem or conflict.  Often, the main character will become changed in some way because of the climax. It is often, but not always, a very exciting point in a story.
Falling Action: All loose ends of the plot are tied up.  The conflict(s) and climax are resolved. This is usually quite short - a chapter or two of an entire novel.
Resolution: The story comes to a reasonable ending. It is hard to tell where the falling action ends and the resolution begins. This is usually quite short - often a chapter or less of an entire novel.

Video Example

You've been tracking the plot of your novel as you've been reading it. Let's see how the elements of plot structures apply to the movie, Aladdin. Then, you can think about your novel. What is the climax?

Plot Diagram Examples

Have you guessed yet that you are going to complete a plot diagram for your novel? Here are two examples of completed diagrams for The Three Little Pigs. The first has all the required information, as well as fancier finishing and great labels! It exceeds expectations.

The second has all of the required information. It fully meets expectations.

How To Complete Your Plot Diagram

Fitting a novel onto a plot diagram can be challenging. You need to be clear and concise, carefully selecting the most important events. Use your Plot Tracking Flowchart to help you complete your plot diagram. You may need to choose the MOST important events from your flowchart or to write even more concisely to complete your plot diagram.

• You can use a template to complete your plot diagram. Just download, print, and complete:

• You can create one of your own on paper. You may use a larger piece of paper, if you wish. When drawing lines, always use a ruler. If you want to write the events on lined paper or a computer, then cut and attach them to a larger diagram, that is fine! Just think about how you can submit it to decide if your ideas work.

• Instead of completing a plot diagram, clearly label the sections of your plot tracking document as:

  • Exposition
  • Rising Action
  • Climax
  • Falling Action
  • Resolution

    • • Use a different colour and size of font/printing for your labels. Jazz up your work with some sketches. 

Finishing it off:

You can earn up to five marks for some "extra" effort and touches to enhance your presentation.