Seventh Grade Literature Notes on plot structure

1. Exposition
Takes place at the beginning of the story. The
setting, characters and background are discussed.
Example:
Cinderella lives with her mean step family. There is
going to be a ball at the palace and she would like
to go, but her step mother will not let her attend.

2. Rising Action
The author discusses the conflict or
problem and the characters attempt to
solve the problem
Example:
As the step family prepares for the ball,
Cinderella wishes that she would be able
to go too. Her fairy godmother appears
and helps her get ready. She goes to the
ball and dances with the prince.

3. Climax
The problem or conflict is at its worst. The
characters work to solve the problem.
Example:
It is midnight and Cinderella must leave
so she runs from the palace. In her rush
she loses her slipper in the steps. The
prince is distraught and vows to use the
shoe to find his lost love.

4. Falling Action
The characters begin to solve the problem
Example:
The prince uses the glass slipper to find
Cinderella. He goes from house to house
searching for the girl who can wear the
glass shoe. He lets the step sisters try the
shoe but it doesn’t fit them.

5. Resolution
The conflict comes to an end, the
problem is solved.
Example:
Cinderella tries on the slipper and it fits.
The prince marries Cinderella and they
live happily ever after.

6. Resolution
The conflict comes to an end, the
problem is solved.
Example:
Cinderella tries on the slipper and it fits.
The prince marries Cinderella and they
live happily ever after.