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 Other Words for Home. 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 Other Words for Home.
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 Other Words for Home. 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 Other Words for Home.
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 Other Words for Home Summary
How to Guide Students in Writing a Thematic Reflection After Completing a Plot Diagram
Encourage students to reflect on the main themes of the story after finishing their plot diagrams. This helps students connect plot events to deeper meanings and personal experiences.
Prompt students with open-ended questions about themes
Ask questions like, "What message do you think the author wanted to share?" or "How did the main character’s journey reflect broader ideas?" Open-ended questions spark critical thinking and personal connections.
Model writing a short thematic reflection
Demonstrate by composing a brief paragraph that links a plot event to a major theme. Show how to use specific examples from their diagrams to support their thoughts.
Invite students to write their own reflections
Guide students to write a few sentences or a paragraph about what they learned from the story’s themes. This step encourages personal expression and comprehension.
Share and discuss reflections as a class
Facilitate a class discussion where students can share their reflections. This builds community and allows students to see different perspectives on the story.
Frequently Asked Questions about Other Words for Home Summary
What is a plot diagram for Other Words for Home?
A plot diagram for Other Words for Home visually maps out the main story events, including the Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution, helping students understand the novel’s structure and key moments.
How can I teach students to create a plot diagram for Other Words for Home?
To teach students, guide them to separate the story into six parts: Title, Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution. Have them illustrate each part with an image and a brief description highlighting major events and characters.
What are the major events in the plot of Other Words for Home?
The major events in Other Words for Home include Jude’s move from Syria, adjusting to a new school, facing challenges in America, reaching a turning point at the school play, and ultimately finding a sense of belonging and hope.
Why is creating a plot diagram useful for middle school students?
Creating a plot diagram helps middle school students break down complex stories, recognize narrative structure, and improve reading comprehension by visually connecting key plot points and themes.
What tools or templates can help students make a visual plot diagram?
Students can use online storyboard creators, printable templates, or drawing apps to build a visual plot diagram. These resources allow students to add images, text, and descriptions for each story element.
More Storyboard That Activities
Other Words for Home
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