Plot

=Writing Assignment for Plot:= Choose and read a story from the wiki collection or textbook, and write a brief description of its plot and main characters (about 150 words). Then write in a 500 word essay about how the [|protagonist] is changed or tested by the story's events. What do the main character's actions reveal about his or her personality? Some possible story choices are "A&P," or "Everyday Use."


 * To post your response, click on the Discussion Tab** at the top of the page, paste in your essay/response and click post. Then everyone can read all the responses; I can read and grade, and **everyone can respond to at least two people in the class in no less than 150 words.**

Here is the definition of plot again as a reminder.
 * __PLOT__** -- The plot is how the author arranges events to develop his basic idea; It is the sequence of events in a story or play. The plot is a planned, logical series of events having a beginning, middle, and end. The short story usually has one plot so it can be read in one sitting. There are five essential parts of plot:

a) **Introduction** - The beginning of the story where the characters and the setting is revealed. b) **Rising Action** - This is where the events in the story become complicated and the conflict in the story is revealed (events between the introduction and climax). c) **Climax** - This is the highest point of interest and the turning point of the story. The reader wonders what will happen next; will the conflict be resolved or not? d) **Falling action** - The events and complications begin to resolve themselves. The reader knows what has happened next and if the conflict was resolved or not (events between climax and denouement). e) **Denouement** - This is the final outcome or untangling of events in the story.

It is helpful to consider climax as a three-fold phenomenon: 1) the main character receives new information 2) accepts this information (realizes it but does not necessarily agree with it) 3) acts on this information (makes a choice that will determine whether or not he/she gains his objective).