The plot of a story is the series of events that happen. The story often starts with an exposition, or introduction. Often the plot involves a problem to be solved. The events build up to the climax, or most intense part. The final events finish the story and resolve the problem.

Practice Together

Plot a Story You can use a plot diagram to show the key parts of a story. Compare this Plot Diagram with “Wings.” Notice that the story begins with a problem. Then the rising action, which is a series of events, leads to the climax. The events after the climax are the falling action.

Plot Diagram

Try It!

Complete the Diagram Copy the Plot Diagram. Work with a partner to complete the missing events and the resolution.

Retell the Story Use your completed diagram to retell the story to another group. Be sure to include all of the main events. Tell how one event leads to another.