Elements of a Story

Front

Plot

Back

The organized pattern or sequence of events that make up a story, consisting of a series of related incidents.

Front

Exposition

Back

Occurs at the beginning of a story where characters and setting (time and place) are introduced.

Front

Rising Action

Back

Introduces and develops the central conflict, building suspense and other conflicts as characters attempt to solve the central conflict.

Front

Climax

Back

The turning point of the story where the main character faces the central conflict and figures out how to solve it, often experiencing a change of heart or gaining new skills.

Front

Falling Action

Back

Describes what happens to characters after the central conflict is resolved, often setting up the story's ending.

Front

Resolution

Back

The story comes to a reasonable ending, typically the last few sentences in the story (e.g., "And they all lived happily ever after...").

Front

Main Character

Back

The plot revolves around this character, who carries out most of the action in the story. The main character is responsible for solving the central conflict, often with help from minor characters.

Front

Minor Character

Back

Characters with a smaller role in the plot who help the main character solve the central conflict.

Front

Setting

Back

The time and place where the story takes place.

Front

Central Conflict

Back

The major problem, obstacle, or issue that the main character must solve.