Creating a plot diagram not only helps students learn the parts of the plot, but it reinforces major events and helps students develop a greater understanding of literary structures. Students can create a storyboard capturing the narrative arc in a work with a six-cell storyboard containing the major parts of the plot diagram. In this activity, students will create a visual plot diagram of major events in Freak the Mighty. Students should identify major turning points in the novel such as the Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution.
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Due Date:
Objective: Create a visual plot diagram for Freak the Mighty.
Student Instructions:
Start off by asking the students to brainstorm a storyline. Students can use their imagination and work on any ideas they like. Give an explanation of the fundamental components of a plot, such as exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution. Teachers can give simple and clear explanations of the concept and structure.
As a visual depiction of a story's structure, display the plot diagram. Each element of the graphic (exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution) should be displayed and described. Highlight the significance of structure in stories and how plot diagrams help the students map their ideas in a visual form.
Provide students with plot diagrams of two different narratives or teachers can also give them just narratives to make comparisons on the basis of plot diagrams. Students can find out if any different structure is implied or how a plot diagram is different for one narrative. This comparison will also open students to new ideas and help them with their own activities.
Students can be divided into small groups, with each group being able to brainstorm its own ideas and concepts. Make them collaborate to develop a plot diagram for the narrative they were given. This encourages conversation and group learning.
Once students are done with all the activities, encourage them to discuss what they learned from the lesson and how they think they will be able to use this concept in the future. Students can also discuss any confusions or questions which they have regarding the concept.
The rising action consists of Max and Kevin's joint experiences and difficulties. This includes their run-ins with bullies, their search for the "unvanquished," and their efforts to support one another as they face individual challenges. In this part, Kevin also gets his nickname “Freak The Mighty” because of getting carried by Max on his shoulders.
The story's turning point is when Max and Kevin face up against a perilous circumstance involving Tony Max’s father kidnapping him and taking him away. This pivotal scene in the story puts both characters at great risk and changes the course of the story.
Not all conflicts are solved as Kevin passes away but Max learns to lift himself up and cherish his memories with Kevin after experiencing this loss and overcoming his trauma.