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 Kira-Kira. 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 Kira-Kira.
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 Kira-Kira. 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 Kira-Kira.
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 Kira-Kira Plot Diagram and Summary
Integrate character analysis into your Kira-Kira plot diagram activity
Bring characters to life by connecting their development to key plot points. Students gain deeper insights into how events shape each character's journey in Kira-Kira.
Choose a main character for focused study
Select one character, such as Katie or Lynn, to track throughout the story. This helps students concentrate their analysis and notice important changes over time.
Identify character traits at each major plot point
At every plot diagram stage—Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution—list key traits or emotions your chosen character displays. This highlights growth and challenges in the narrative.
Add a character-focused note or illustration to each cell
Encourage students to draw or write a brief note showing how the character responds at each story point. Visuals and reflections make the analysis engaging and memorable.
Discuss how plot events influence character growth
Wrap up the activity by facilitating a class discussion on how the plot shapes the character's actions, beliefs, or relationships. This deepens comprehension and connects plot with personal development.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kira-Kira Plot Diagram and Summary
What is a plot diagram for Kira-Kira?
A plot diagram for Kira-Kira visually breaks down the novel’s key events into five main parts: Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution. This helps students understand the structure and flow of the story.
How do I create a plot diagram for Kira-Kira in the classroom?
To create a plot diagram for Kira-Kira, have students separate the story into its main components—Title, Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution. For each, students should draw or select images and write short descriptions of the key moments.
What are the main events in Kira-Kira’s plot structure?
The main events in Kira-Kira include the family’s move, Lynn’s illness, Katie’s struggles, the family’s hardships, Lynn’s passing (Climax), and the family’s journey toward healing (Resolution).
Why is using a plot diagram helpful for teaching Kira-Kira?
Using a plot diagram helps students visually organize major events, deepen their understanding of the story’s structure, and reinforce literary elements like the narrative arc and turning points.
What is an example of a rising action in Kira-Kira?
An example of rising action in Kira-Kira is when Katie and her family face challenges adjusting to their new life and Lynn’s health begins to decline, building tension toward the story’s climax.
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