Reading Fiction – Plot

The sequence of events in a story is called the story’s plot. The plot is like a blueprint of what happens, when it happens, and to whom it happens. Plots are almost always built around conflicts – problems or struggles between opposing forces. Although plots differ, a plot usually includes the four stages of development described below.

1)    Exposition

• Introduces characters
• Introduces setting
• Supplies background
• Sets the tone

2)    Rising Action

• Introduces complications
• Builds suspense

3)    Climax

• Turning point of the story
• The moment when suspense reaches its peak
• Results in a change for the main character
• Usually arrives before the ending, but can be found at or near the end as well

4)    Falling Action

• Occurs after the climax of the story
• Resolves conflict
• Ties up loose ends

Worksheet

Exposition:

Briefly describe the characters and setting at the beginning:

Any background information given about the people/place?

Rising Action:

What complications exist for which characters?

Where does conflict come from in the story? Another person? A group? A belief? Society in general?

Climax:

No further major conflicts should exist after the climax of a story. Briefly summarize the action where it seems the conflict “comes to a head” in this story:

Falling Action:

Briefly describe what happens after the climax:

Are mysteries solved? “Loose ends tied?” Explain:

Information from "The Language of Literature" published by McDougal Littell, A Houghton Mifflin Company, Evanston, Illinois. 2000.