In many stories, this is where the author exposes the reader to the important elements of the 'set up' or background of the story such as the major characters' names, setting, and mood. The exposition of the literary plot diagram is the introduction to a story. Creating a story plot map can be an invaluable tool for writers, as it helps them visualize the trajectory of their narrative and ensure a well-structured and engaging story.Įlements of Plot Structure Diagrams Explained: Exposition The 6 elements of a plot diagram or traditional story arc are: exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution. What are the Six Elements of a Plot Diagram? The plot diagram picture examples below are completed story maps from the award-winning novels, The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan and Maniac Magee by Jerry Spinelli.Įach novel is the perfect plot diagram example story, and follows the basic structure of a story arc. However, these concepts can also be used outside of the classroom! They not only give students a fuller understanding of classroom texts, but their favorite books and movies as well. Students are sure to use the skills they learn throughout elementary, middle and high school. Lessons emphasizing these skills meet many Common Core Standards for English Language Arts ( CCSS.ELA-Literacy) and are referenced in all grade levels.

They challenge students to create the story arc in order of events, and to pick out and include only the most important key elements to create a concise, organized summary, which is a skill they will use throughout their life! Whatever you call it, it's useful to arrange the plot elements in order because it allows students to pick out major themes in the text, to trace character development with character arcs over the course of the narrative, and for students to hone their analytical skills. They may also be referred to as story charts, story arcs, story plot line, plot graphs or charts, story mountains, or plot mountain diagrams. Narrative arc diagrams, story arcs, or Plot Diagrams are essential tools for students to improve reading comprehension, build literary connections, and increase their appreciation of literature! Plot line diagrams are called by many names. The plot line diagram is broken down into three segments: three segments: beginning, middle, and end that include six main parts or 'The Six Parts of a Story': Exposition, Conflict, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action and Resolution.

To put it simply, this visual triangle (as shown in the above image) is an easy way for students to remember the way a story's events unfold. A detailed plot chart diagram can be a valuable tool for both readers and writers, as it visually maps out the key elements of a narrative, aiding in analysis and storytelling. A plot diagram exposition typically introduces the main characters, establishes the setting, and provides the initial context of the story, laying the foundation for the narrative's development.įormally, it is a linear graphic representation of the narrative arc of a story that demonstrates the important elements occurring from beginning to end. Simply stated, it is a way of tracking the important events in a story. A useful plot diagram definition is a concise and visual representation of a story's structure, breaking it down into its essential components, which helps readers and writers analyze and understand narratives more effectively.

Story elements tracker anchor chart