Activity Overview
Creating a plot diagram not only helps students learn the parts of the plot, but it reinforces major events and helps students develop a greater understanding of literary structures. Students can create a storyboard capturing the narrative arc in a work with a six-cell storyboard containing the major parts of the plot diagram. In this activity, students will create a visual plot diagram of major events in Al Capone Does My Shirts. Students should identify major turning points in the novel such as the Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a visual plot diagram for Al Capone Does My Shirts.
Student Instructions:
- Separate the story into the Title, Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution.
- Create an image that represents an important moment or set of events for each of the story components using appropriate scenes, characters and items.
- Write a description of each of the steps in the plot diagram.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | Cells include images that help to tell the story and do not get in the way of understanding. Descriptions match the images. | Descriptions do not always match the images. | Descriptions are missing or do not match the images. |
| Plot | Each of the six cells represents a different part of the story. The cells are in order from beginning to end. | Two cells or fewer are out of order, or the storyboard is missing important information. | Important information is missing and/or three or more cells are out of order. |
| Spelling and Grammar | Spelling and grammar is mostly accurate. Mistakes do not get in the way of understanding. | Spelling is very inaccurate and hinders full understanding. | Text is difficult to understand. |
Activity Overview
Creating a plot diagram not only helps students learn the parts of the plot, but it reinforces major events and helps students develop a greater understanding of literary structures. Students can create a storyboard capturing the narrative arc in a work with a six-cell storyboard containing the major parts of the plot diagram. In this activity, students will create a visual plot diagram of major events in Al Capone Does My Shirts. Students should identify major turning points in the novel such as the Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a visual plot diagram for Al Capone Does My Shirts.
Student Instructions:
- Separate the story into the Title, Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution.
- Create an image that represents an important moment or set of events for each of the story components using appropriate scenes, characters and items.
- Write a description of each of the steps in the plot diagram.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | Cells include images that help to tell the story and do not get in the way of understanding. Descriptions match the images. | Descriptions do not always match the images. | Descriptions are missing or do not match the images. |
| Plot | Each of the six cells represents a different part of the story. The cells are in order from beginning to end. | Two cells or fewer are out of order, or the storyboard is missing important information. | Important information is missing and/or three or more cells are out of order. |
| Spelling and Grammar | Spelling and grammar is mostly accurate. Mistakes do not get in the way of understanding. | Spelling is very inaccurate and hinders full understanding. | Text is difficult to understand. |
How Tos about Al Capone Does My Shirts Summary
Organize a class discussion about Al Capone Does My Shirts
Invite students to share their thoughts on the book in an open discussion. Encourage them to talk about their favorite characters, moments, and themes. This builds engagement and lets every voice be heard.
Connect the plot diagram to real-life challenges
Ask students to relate events from the plot diagram to situations they might face in real life. Guide them to draw parallels between the characters’ struggles and their own experiences. This deepens understanding and empathy.
Assign creative writing based on unresolved plot points
Challenge students to write an alternate ending or a new scene for the story. Encourage them to use their imagination and the plot diagram for inspiration. This activity builds writing skills and critical thinking.
Facilitate peer review of storyboard diagrams
Pair students to review each other's plot diagrams. Guide them to give specific, positive feedback and suggest improvements. Peer review fosters collaboration and helps students refine their work.
Frequently Asked Questions about Al Capone Does My Shirts Summary
What is a plot diagram for Al Capone Does My Shirts?
A plot diagram for Al Capone Does My Shirts visually outlines the novel’s main events: Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution. It helps students understand how the story unfolds and the key turning points in the narrative.
How can I create a visual plot diagram for Al Capone Does My Shirts?
To create a visual plot diagram, divide the story into six parts: Title, Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution. For each part, draw or select an image that represents major events, and write a brief description to explain its significance in the story.
What are the major events in Al Capone Does My Shirts to include in a plot diagram?
Major events to include are: the introduction of Moose Flanagan and his family (Exposition), Moose adjusting to life on Alcatraz and challenges with his sister Natalie (Rising Action), the climax involving Natalie’s school acceptance, and how the family resolves their struggles (Falling Action and Resolution).
Why is using a plot diagram helpful for teaching Al Capone Does My Shirts?
Using a plot diagram helps students visually organize the story, identify key events, and better grasp literary structure. It reinforces comprehension and makes it easier to discuss themes and character development in Al Capone Does My Shirts.
What are some tips for making a storyboard plot diagram engaging for middle school students?
Keep the storyboard visual and interactive by letting students choose images or draw scenes, use color coding for different plot parts, and encourage creative descriptions. This approach makes learning memorable and helps students connect more deeply with the novel.
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Al Capone Does My Shirts
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