A common use for Storyboard That is to help students create a plot diagram of the events from a story. Not only is this a great way to teach the parts of the plot, but it reinforces major events and helps students develop 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. For each cell, have students create a scene that follows the story in sequence using: Exposition, Conflict, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution.
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Student Instructions
Create a visual plot diagram of A Tale of Two Cities.
Assign small groups of students to focus on different parts of the plot diagram (Exposition, Conflict, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, Resolution). This approach lets students dive deeper into one section, then teach their findings to the class. Collaboration builds understanding and engagement for all learners.
Encourage each group to identify the most significant event or turning point for their assigned plot section. Discuss how these choices impact the story’s development. This helps students think critically about narrative structure and author intent.
Instruct groups to use storyboarding tools or drawing materials to visually represent their key moment. Remind them to include details that show character emotions and setting. Visuals help solidify comprehension and make concepts memorable.
Have each group present their scene and explanation to the class. Encourage students to ask questions and connect the moments together. This fosters a shared understanding of the whole plot and boosts speaking skills.
Lead a discussion about how each plot event builds toward the story’s resolution. Ask students to share insights or surprises from the group presentations. Reflection reinforces learning and deepens literary analysis.
A plot diagram for A Tale of Two Cities visually maps out the key story elements: Exposition, Conflict, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution. It helps students understand the narrative arc and main events in the novel.
Students can create a storyboard by dividing the story into six sections—Exposition, Conflict, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution. For each, they illustrate a scene and write a brief description to capture the main plot points.
Plot diagrams help high school students break down complex stories, reinforce understanding of literary structures, and recall major events. Visual mapping enhances engagement and comprehension for diverse learners.
The major plot points in A Tale of Two Cities include the Exposition (setting up the story and characters), Conflict (rising tensions), Rising Action (events leading to the climax), Climax (the story's turning point), Falling Action, and Resolution (conclusion).
The best way to engage students is through visual activities like creating storyboards or plot diagrams. These hands-on tasks make the novel accessible, encourage creativity, and deepen understanding of the narrative and themes.