A presentation for young writers

1. R O S E M O R E H O U S E I N T E R N A T I O N A L S C H O O L , L E K K I
YOUNG
AUTHORS

2. WEEK 4
PLOT
DEVELOPMENT

3. Learning objectives:
At the end of the lesson, students should be
able to:
1. Define plot.
2. Mention the elements of a story’s plot.
3. Apply the elements of a story’s plot in
writing their stories.
Keywords: plot, introduction, rising action,
climax, falling action, resolution

4. Meaning of a Story’s Plot:
The plot is the most important part of a
story, just like the brain.
It is the arrangement of events or actions in
a story. In that arrangement, we learn
more about the characters, the
setting/place of action and the moral of
the story.
In a way, the plot is the TRUNK from which
all the other elements of a story grow.

5. Elements of a Story’s Plot:
1. INTRODUCTION: This is the start of the story,
where we meet the main character or
characters, understand the setting, and deduce
the conflict.
For example, we might meet a main character,
named Fiona, who just moved to Ireland, and
is writing her first book. There, we meet the
main character, understand she is in a new
country, and will watch her push to overcome
the challenges that come from each of these
new elements.

6. 2. RISING ACTION
In the rising action, we watch a series of actions
unfold. There is not much in a story if everything
works out perfectly and there are zero bumps in
the road. We need a little conflict.
Conflict can come in many forms. Continuing with
Fiona, perhaps she is battling some sort of
internal conflict. We might see her doubt her
decision to move so far away from home. Or,
with regard to her book, perhaps she submits it
to her agent and it is torn.
Maybe she meets some troublesome Irish lad who
bullies her from her primary purpose and she
must trace back her priorities. The possibilities
for action - and conflict - are endless.

7. 3. CLIMAX
The climax of a story is the peak of the action. At this point,
we have watched the main character confront the action
or conflict, and now something major has to come to a
head.
Perhaps Fiona makes a new acquaintance who takes on a
motherly role, reducing those feelings of doubt about
moving so far away from home. Perhaps she submits the
revised version of her book and it is accepted. Maybe she
stands up to face the troublesome Irish lad.
Just as there are many avenues for action and conflict, there
are many ways to bring a story to a climax. This will be the
moment that stirs up the strongest sense of emotion in the
reader.

8. 4. FALLING ACTION
In the falling action, we see things start to
wind down.
Fiona and her new motherly acquaintance
might have settled into a steady rhythm
of Sunday dinners by now. As for her
book, maybe the only thing she's waiting
for is the advanced copy. Perhaps the
troublesome lad has come back around
to apologise and they are good friends.

9. 5. RESOLUTION
In any story, it is important to conclude with a solid
resolution. Here, we learn of the final outcome of
the tale or story. Short stories, in particular, need a
defined ending. Books, however, can remain
somewhat open-ended. But, you must bring the
story to a close with either a tragic or a happy
ending.
Perhaps Fiona is purchasing a crumbling mansion in
Ireland with the royalties from her book. Or,
maybe she'll move back to her home country,
cherishing her Irish adventure for what it was.
Either way, readers want to experience some sort
of resolution.

10. I HOPE YOU
ENJOY THIS
LESSON!