1. Tell the class that they are going to learn AND teach basic plot structure today.
2.
Quickly divide the classes into six groups. (That will
be 2 groups of 3 and 4 groups of 4 for fifth period and 4 groups of four and 2
groups of 5 for sixth, assuming no one is absent. Give each group one of the
Exploring Plot Structure Handouts. Read through the first page as a group.
3. Give
each group one of the plot structures to focus on from the back of the
Exploring Plot Structure Handout (1) stream of consciousness, (2) episodic, (3)
parallel, (4) plot within a plot, (5) multiple points of view, (6) in media(s) res. The back of the paper
explains what each one is. I have extra instructions attached for the stream of
consciousness, parallel plot, and plot within a plot group that you can give
them.
4. Give
them about twenty minutes or so to write their stories using their assigned
plot structure. They need to work fast!! Remind them that they need to share a
very short story/example and explain what the plot structure is to the class. They should have a written copy of their
example with all their names on it that they give to you.
5.
With about 20 minutes left, have each group present
according to the guidelines on their assignment sheet. Please give each group a grade of check for adequate, + for
absolutely amazing, and — for not adequate. The groups can go in the order
on the chart on the next page (that’s where you can mark their scores, too.)
6.
Have all of the students turn their finished work into
you and leave them on my desk. Please shut the windows, turn off the lights,
and shut the door before leaving.
Task Four (rough draft, 3 page minimum for full credit) due on April 25th. Please bring 2 printed copies to class.
