Activity Overview
Creating a plot diagram not only helps students learn 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 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 One Crazy Summer. 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 of One Crazy Summer.
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.
Requirements:
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 help students develop 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 One Crazy Summer. 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 of One Crazy Summer.
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.
Requirements:
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 One Crazy Summer Visual Summary
How to Facilitate a Collaborative Plot Diagram Activity with Small Groups
Boost engagement by having students work together to analyze story structure. Collaboration deepens understanding and helps students learn from each other's perspectives.
Organize students into diverse groups of 3–4.
Mix students with different strengths and backgrounds. Small groups encourage participation from all members and foster peer learning.
Assign each group a section of the plot diagram to analyze.
Give every group a specific part—such as Exposition or Climax—so they can focus deeply on their section. This approach promotes accountability and ensures comprehensive coverage of the story.
Guide groups to create visuals and written summaries for their assigned section.
Encourage students to collaborate on images and concise descriptions representing key moments. Visuals help solidify understanding and make learning memorable.
Have groups present their section and combine diagrams to form a complete story arc.
Each group shares their work with the class, then assemble all sections into one large plot diagram. Presentations build confidence and help students see the big picture of the narrative.
Frequently Asked Questions about One Crazy Summer Visual Summary
What is a plot diagram and how can it help students understand 'One Crazy Summer'?
A plot diagram is a visual tool that outlines the main events of a story, including the exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution. Creating a plot diagram for One Crazy Summer helps students identify key turning points and better understand the novel’s structure and themes.
How do I create a visual plot diagram for 'One Crazy Summer' with my students?
To create a visual plot diagram for One Crazy Summer, have students divide the story into sections: Title, Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution. For each part, students should draw a scene and write a brief description of the key events, using characters and settings from the novel.
What are the major plot points in 'One Crazy Summer' that should be included in a storyboard?
The major plot points in One Crazy Summer include the Exposition (introducing Delphine and her sisters), Rising Action (the girls’ arrival in Oakland and their experiences with their mother), Climax (a pivotal event that changes their relationships), Falling Action (the aftermath of the climax), and Resolution (how the story wraps up).
Why is using a storyboard effective for teaching literary structure to middle school students?
Using a storyboard helps middle school students visualize the sequence of events and understand how each part of the plot connects. It reinforces comprehension, engages creative thinking, and supports retention of literary concepts.
What are some tips for making an engaging plot diagram activity for grades 6-8?
To make a plot diagram activity engaging for grades 6-8, encourage students to use colorful images, select meaningful scenes, add short but descriptive captions, and discuss their choices as a class. Allowing individual creativity while focusing on key plot points makes the lesson both fun and educational.
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