Elements of Plot

Students will demonstrate a knowledge of the workings of plot (rising action, climax, falling action and conclusion) by creating a graphic organizer outlining the elements of a movie they have seen.

​Motivation:

What is the most exciting book you’ve read? What is the most exciting movie you’ve seen? What makes it exciting?

1. Write two sentences about a character. ANY character.

2. Write two sentences about a setting, ANY setting.

3. Write two sentences about a goal the character has.

4. Write two sentences about the obstacles between the character and their goal.

5. Write two sentences about someone or something that helps the character overcome the obstacle.

6. Write two sentences about how the character finally reaches the goal.

7. Write two sentences about what the character learned during his/her journey.

8. Write one sentence to end the story.

All of these are ​pieces of parts of the PLOT.

PLOT: What happens in a story. What happens to the character. The character must have a goal that is blocked by some kind of obstacle.

Graph or chart with definitions (or give definitions):

Exposition: introduction of characters and setting

Conflict: problem or issue

Rising Action: characters attempt to overcome problem unsuccessfully

Climax: the turning point in the story; the most intense part

Falling Action: things are calming down

Resolution: problems/issues resolved

Work Time:

Students plot out their own stories. If one or more drafts have already been done, have the student chunk out their story. Have them (try to) identify which parts of their story fits into the plot chart.