Hatchet Sequence of Events

In literature, readers need to understand that the sequence of events can play a very important role in the overall plot. There are varying ways to show sequencing. In Hatchet, one could choose to show the plane crash, Brian tending to his porcupine injuries, or his rescue.

In this example, we show how Brian goes from starving, with nothing to eat, to foraging, hunting, and fishing for his survival. Whether students decide to show a big picture, or a more focused view, it is important to show how order affects the story. Without proper sequencing of important events, plots don't really come together.

Have students think of a series of events with a discernible connection, and create a storyboard that shows something that develops in the sequence. Perhaps the events will show Brian's evolution of his survival skills, how he copes with loneliness, or his ability to be patient.

Student Instructions

Create a storyboard with a sequence of events in Hatchet that shows a development over time.

1. Choose an aspect of the story that develops over the course of the book, such as Brian's survival skills.
2. Select three events that show how the aspect develops over time.
3. Illustrate each event in three separate cells.
4. Below each cell, type in a description about the importance of that part of the story.