How Does Plot Affect the Theme? The plot of a story is made up of all the events in the story. A writer uses the plot to develop the theme, or main message. If events change, the theme of the story will change.

To understand how plot affects theme, think about these plot elements:

• • the conflict, or problem in the story

• • complications, or things that add to the problem

• • the climax, or turning point in the story

• • the resolution, or solution to the problem

Practice Together

Identify Theme Through Plot Elements Look at the Plot Diagram for “Zlateh the Goat.” What theme is supported by the events in the story?

Plot Diagram

Now change one of the events in the story. For example, what if there was no blizzard? How would that affect the theme?

Try It!

Analyze Plot and Theme Reread “Rachel the Clever” on pages 130–138. With a partner, create a Plot Diagram to track the plot and figure out the theme. Then change an event. Discuss how it would affect the theme.