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 fill in a digital worksheet to write and illustrate the narrative arc of a story. In this activity, students will create a visual plot diagram of major events in the story. Students should identify major turning points in the novel such as the Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution.
This digital worksheet example uses the book Wonder by R.J. Palacio. (See more activities for Wonder) However, any book can be used, the sky's the limit!
Find more templates to choose from here: Plot Diagram Worksheets. You can add as many templates as you like for students to do more than one digital worksheet if they finish early, or to differentiate to meet the needs of all students.
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 a book.
Student Instructions:
- Separate the story into the Title, Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution.
- In the digital worksheet, add text and images that represent an important moment or set of events for each of the story components using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
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 fill in a digital worksheet to write and illustrate the narrative arc of a story. In this activity, students will create a visual plot diagram of major events in the story. Students should identify major turning points in the novel such as the Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution.
This digital worksheet example uses the book Wonder by R.J. Palacio. (See more activities for Wonder) However, any book can be used, the sky's the limit!
Find more templates to choose from here: Plot Diagram Worksheets. You can add as many templates as you like for students to do more than one digital worksheet if they finish early, or to differentiate to meet the needs of all students.
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 a book.
Student Instructions:
- Separate the story into the Title, Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution.
- In the digital worksheet, add text and images that represent an important moment or set of events for each of the story components using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
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 Plot Diagram Digital Worksheet
Use digital tools to facilitate peer review of plot diagrams
Encourage students to share their completed plot diagrams with classmates using a digital platform. Peer review helps students see different perspectives and deepens their understanding of story structure.
Set clear peer review expectations and guidelines
Provide students with simple, specific criteria for reviewing a peer’s plot diagram—such as checking for correct placement of story elements and clarity of images or text. Clear guidelines keep feedback positive and focused.
Model constructive feedback with examples
Demonstrate what helpful feedback looks like by reviewing a sample plot diagram together. Show both compliments and suggestions for improvement using respectful language.
Assign pairs or small groups for peer review sessions
Organize students into pairs or trios to exchange digital worksheets and give feedback. Smaller groups encourage participation and make sharing less intimidating for students.
Guide students to revise their plot diagrams based on feedback
Ask students to review the comments they received and make at least one improvement to their plot diagram. This step reinforces the value of feedback and encourages a growth mindset.
Frequently Asked Questions about Plot Diagram Digital Worksheet
What is a plot diagram and how does it help students understand stories?
A plot diagram is a visual tool that maps out the main parts of a story, such as exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution. It helps students grasp story structure and better understand how events connect and build in a narrative.
How do I use a digital plot diagram worksheet in my classroom?
To use a digital plot diagram worksheet, assign students a story and have them fill out each section—title, exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution—with text and images that represent key events. This interactive activity works for any book and supports visual learning.
What are the main parts of a plot diagram for students to identify?
The main parts of a plot diagram students should identify are: Exposition (introduction), Rising Action (events building tension), Climax (turning point), Falling Action (events after climax), and Resolution (conclusion).
Can I use a plot diagram worksheet with any book or story?
Yes, a plot diagram worksheet can be used with any book or story. It's a flexible tool for reinforcing narrative structure, making it easy to adapt for different grade levels or reading materials.
What are some tips for differentiating digital plot diagram activities for students with varied needs?
To differentiate digital plot diagram activities, offer multiple templates, allow use of text and images, and adjust worksheet complexity. Provide extra support or challenge as needed, so all students engage meaningfully at their own level.
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