Elements of a Story (Plot)

Exposition

The introduction to a story, including the primary characters' names, setting, mood, and time.

Conflict

The first (primary) problem that drives the plot of the story, often a main goal for the protagonist to achieve or overcome. (A struggle between two forces in the story)

Rising Action

All the events that lead to the eventual climax, including character development and events that create suspense.

Climax

The most exciting point of the story, and is a turning point for the plot or goals of the main character.

Resolution

How the story ends; how the problem is solved. The resolution is not always happy, but it does complete the story. It can leave a reader with questions, answers, frustration, or satisfaction.

Protagonist

Main Character; the "hero

Antagonist

The character/group who is in conflict with the protagonist

Falling Action

Events or Examples that show how the conflict is solved that brings us to the resolution or end of story

Theme

The message, or 'big idea' - what we learn in the story. In other words, what critical belief about life is the author trying to convey in the writing of a novel, play, short story or poem?

Elements of a Plot

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Theme

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Exposition

The introduction to a story, including the primary characters' names, setting, mood, and time.

Conflict

The first (primary) problem that drives the plot of the story, often a main goal for the protagonist to achieve or overcome. (A struggle between two forces in the story)

Rising Action

All the events that lead to the eventual climax, including character development and events that create suspense.

Climax

The most exciting point of the story, and is a turning point for the plot or goals of the main character.

Resolution

How the story ends; how the problem is solved. The resolution is not always happy, but it does complete the story. It can leave a reader with questions, answers, frustration, or satisfaction.

Protagonist

Main Character; the "hero

Antagonist

The character/group who is in conflict with the protagonist

Falling Action

Events or Examples that show how the conflict is solved that brings us to the resolution or end of story

Theme

The message, or 'big idea' - what we learn in the story. In other words, what critical belief about life is the author trying to convey in the writing of a novel, play, short story or poem?

Elements of a Plot

...

Theme

...