Activities

1. Sequence at least six events from a text into a chart that shows which are exposition, rising action, climax, falling action and resolution.
   
   
2. Identify whether the plot moves in a traditional linear manner or uses flashbacks and/or flashforwards.
   
   
3. Compare at least two events that help advance the plot of a narrative.
   
   
4. Summarize the climax of a narrative and explain the relationship between the climax and the large conflict of the narrative.
   
   
5. Cite evidence to analyze the relationship between the resolution of a narrative and a major character.
   
   
6. Investigate whether or not there are patterns or motifs that work to advance the plot, illustrate a theme or develop characterization.

Answer Key/Rubric

1. Students correctly sequence the most important events from a text (the ones that help advance plot the most) in terms of where they fall in exposition, rising action, climax, falling action and resolution.
   
   
2. Students correctly identify whether or not a plot move in a traditional linear, chronological direction, or whether there are instances of prolepsis, analepsis or in medias res.
   
   
3. Students compare two parts of the rising action to determine which advances the plot of a narrative more strongly.
   
   
4. Students not only demonstrate understanding of the climax through summary, but also demonstrate understanding of the climax’s role in shaping the conflict of the narrative.
   
   
5. Students demonstrate understanding of how plot works to develop characterization by drawing conclusions about how a character is affected by and/or affects the resolution of a narrative.
   
   
6. Students investigate whether or not a narrative employs patterns and/or motifs as part of the plot and how these patterns advance the plot itself.

Suggested Rubric:  This rubric may be used to assess a student’s overall mastery of the standard or eligible content.