Activity Overview
Have students create a plot diagram of the events from "All Summer in a Day". Not only is this a great way to teach the parts of the plot, but it reinforces major events and help students develop greater understanding of literary structures.
Students can create a storyboard capturing the narrative arc in a novel with a five-cell storyboard containing the major parts of the plot diagram. For each cell, have students create a scene that follows the short story in sequence using 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.)
Student Instructions
Create a visual plot diagram of "All Summer in a Day".
- Separate the story into the 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.
- 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 33 Points | Emerging 25 Points | Beginning 17 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plot Images | Cells include images that convey events in the corresponding stage of the plot. The images represent an important moment and exemplify the descriptions below them. | Cells include one or two images that convey events from an incorrect stage of the plot. Most images represent an important moment and exemplify the descriptions below them. | Cells include three or more images that convey events from an incorrect stage of the plot. Images depict minor and inimportant moments or do not reflect the descriptions below them. |
| Plot Text | The storyboard correctly identifies all six stages of the plot. The text for each of the six cells correctly breaks down the plot events into appropriate stages. The text gives a logical overview of the plot and includes the most significant events of the book. | The storyboard misidentifies one or two stages of the plot. The text for each of the six cells breaks down most of the plot events into appropriate stages. The text gives a logical overview of the plot, but may omit some significant events of the book. | The storyboard misidentifies three or more stages of the plot. The text for each of the six cells does not correspond to the events of that stage. Overall plot description is not logical. |
| Spelling and Grammar | Spelling and grammar is exemplary. Text contains few or no mistakes. | Text contains some significant errors in spelling or grammar. | Text contains many errors in spelling or grammar. |
Activity Overview
Have students create a plot diagram of the events from "All Summer in a Day". Not only is this a great way to teach the parts of the plot, but it reinforces major events and help students develop greater understanding of literary structures.
Students can create a storyboard capturing the narrative arc in a novel with a five-cell storyboard containing the major parts of the plot diagram. For each cell, have students create a scene that follows the short story in sequence using 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.)
Student Instructions
Create a visual plot diagram of "All Summer in a Day".
- Separate the story into the 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.
- 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 33 Points | Emerging 25 Points | Beginning 17 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plot Images | Cells include images that convey events in the corresponding stage of the plot. The images represent an important moment and exemplify the descriptions below them. | Cells include one or two images that convey events from an incorrect stage of the plot. Most images represent an important moment and exemplify the descriptions below them. | Cells include three or more images that convey events from an incorrect stage of the plot. Images depict minor and inimportant moments or do not reflect the descriptions below them. |
| Plot Text | The storyboard correctly identifies all six stages of the plot. The text for each of the six cells correctly breaks down the plot events into appropriate stages. The text gives a logical overview of the plot and includes the most significant events of the book. | The storyboard misidentifies one or two stages of the plot. The text for each of the six cells breaks down most of the plot events into appropriate stages. The text gives a logical overview of the plot, but may omit some significant events of the book. | The storyboard misidentifies three or more stages of the plot. The text for each of the six cells does not correspond to the events of that stage. Overall plot description is not logical. |
| Spelling and Grammar | Spelling and grammar is exemplary. Text contains few or no mistakes. | Text contains some significant errors in spelling or grammar. | Text contains many errors in spelling or grammar. |
How Tos about \"All Summer in a Day\" Plot Diagram
How to Lead a Thoughtful Class Discussion on 'All Summer in a Day'
Encourage critical thinking and active participation by preparing open-ended questions about the story’s themes, characters, and emotions. Guide students to connect the narrative to their own experiences and feelings.
Set Clear Discussion Goals
Explain the purpose of the discussion, such as exploring empathy or understanding group dynamics. This helps students stay focused and engaged during the conversation.
Create a Safe and Respectful Environment
Establish ground rules that encourage respectful listening and sharing. Let students know all opinions are valued, and ensure everyone has a chance to speak.
Ask Open-Ended, Reflective Questions
Use questions like, "Why do you think the children acted the way they did?" or "How would you feel if you were Margot?" This sparks deeper discussion and personal connections.
Encourage Students to Support Their Ideas with Evidence
Ask students to reference specific events or dialogue from the story. This builds textual analysis skills and strengthens their arguments.
Frequently Asked Questions about \"All Summer in a Day\" Plot Diagram
How do I create a plot diagram for "All Summer in a Day"?
To create a plot diagram for "All Summer in a Day", divide the story into five key parts: Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution. For each, identify a major event or turning point, then illustrate and describe these moments visually or in writing. This helps students understand the story's structure and main events.
What are the main events in the plot of "All Summer in a Day"?
The main events include: Exposition (introduction to Venus and Margot), Rising Action (students' anticipation of the sun, Margot's isolation), Climax (students lock Margot in a closet as the sun appears), Falling Action (the sun disappears and students remember Margot), and Resolution (students release Margot, feeling guilty).
Why use a storyboard to teach the plot of "All Summer in a Day"?
Using a storyboard makes it easier for students to visualize story structure, track key events, and deepen comprehension. It engages visual learners and supports understanding of narrative arcs in literature.
What should each cell include in a plot diagram activity for this story?
Each cell should show an important scene or moment from the story corresponding to one part of the narrative arc (Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, Resolution), along with a brief description explaining its significance.
Is a plot diagram activity suitable for middle school students?
Yes, a plot diagram is ideal for grades 6–8. It builds literary analysis skills, helps students identify story elements, and is adaptable for individuals, partners, or groups.
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