Activity Overview
Creating a plot diagram not only helps students learn the parts of the plot, but it reinforces major events and help 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. In this activity, students will create a visual plot diagram of major events in White Bird. Students should identify major turning points in the novel such as the Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a visual plot diagram of the events in White Bird.
Student Instructions:
- Separate the story into the Title, Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution.
- Create an image that represents an important moment or set of events for each of the story components using appropriate scenes, characters and items.
- Write a description of each of the steps in the plot diagram.
Lesson Plan Reference
- [ELA-Literacy/RL/5/5] Explain how a series of chapters, scenes, or stanzas fits together to provide the overall structure of a particular story, drama, or poem.
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | Cells include images that help to tell the story and do not get in the way of understanding. Descriptions match the images. | Descriptions do not always match the images. | Descriptions are missing or do not match the images. |
| Plot | Each of the six cells represents a different part of the story. The cells are in order from beginning to end. | Two cells or fewer are out of order, or the storyboard is missing important information. | Important information is missing and/or three or more cells are out of order. |
| Spelling and Grammar | Spelling and grammar is mostly accurate. Mistakes do not get in the way of understanding. | Spelling is very inaccurate and hinders full understanding. | Text is difficult to understand. |
How To Help Students Use Literary Structures in Creative Writing
Introduce Literary Structures
Introduce the concept of literary structures to the students and how these structures are used to enhance the narrative. Teachers can use examples of plot diagrams, five act structures, and three act structures to help students gain a deeper understanding. Students can also analyze some of their favorite books to fit the narrative into these structures.
Foster Creativity
Encourage the students to use their imagination and come up with an idea for their story writing activity. Students can take inspiration from any story they like or even write a sequel for their favorite stories. Once the students are clear on their ideas, teachers can help them develop the story line and recognize the sequence of the events in the narrative.
Choose a Framework
Students can choose one literary structure from all the frameworks they have studied so far and mould their narrative according to that structure. For instance, if students have chosen a five act structure, they should have a clear exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and a resolution. Students can develop their storylines according to the framework.
Use Graphic Organizers
Initially, it might be difficult for students to fit the entire story in the structure hence, teachers can introduce graphic organizers that can help them organize their thoughts and information. Mind maps and plot diagrams are some examples of easy and interesting graphic organizers that students can use.
Hold a Competition
Teachers can also use this story writing exercise as a competition to make the students more engaged and interested. Students with the best storyline and comprehensive use of literary structures can get an incentive or a small prize. Teachers can encourage the rest of the students with positive feedback and words of motivation.
Frequently Asked Questions About White Bird Plot Diagram
What is the key conflict at the heart of the story?
The struggle for Sara and other Jews to survive France's Nazi occupation is the main issue in "White Bird." In order to stay concealed and safe, Sara must manage the risks of being Jewish in a hostile environment and make challenging decisions. Students can look for more internal and external conflicts in the story in order to understand the narrative better.
What significant events define the course of the narrative in White Bird?
Key incidents in "White Bird" include Sara's first meetings with Julien, her choice to assume a new identity, the difficulties of living in secrecy, and her telling all these events to her grandson Julian who wants to shine some light on her story and become a better person to fight against evil.
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