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 Return to Sender. 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 Return to Sender.
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 Return to Sender. 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 Return to Sender.
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 Return to Sender Plot Summary
How to facilitate a class discussion using the Return to Sender plot diagram
Engage students by using the plot diagram as a visual anchor during your discussion. Prompt students to reference specific events and encourage them to connect plot points to character decisions for deeper analysis.
Ask students to identify turning points together
Project the plot diagram and invite students to suggest which events mark major changes in the story. This promotes collaborative analysis and ensures everyone understands the narrative structure.
Encourage students to relate plot events to themes
Guide students to discuss how key events on the diagram illustrate central themes, such as family, immigration, or friendship. This connects plot understanding to deeper literary analysis.
Use think-pair-share to spark engagement
Have students think individually about a plot event, discuss with a partner, then share insights with the class. This structure builds confidence and ensures all voices are heard.
Wrap up with reflective questions
Close the discussion by asking students to reflect on how the plot diagram helped them understand the story. Encourage them to share personal takeaways or lingering questions.
Frequently Asked Questions about Return to Sender Plot Summary
What is a plot diagram for Return to Sender?
A plot diagram for Return to Sender visually outlines the main events of Julia Alvarez's novel using sections like Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution. It helps students track key turning points and understand the story's structure.
How can students create a visual plot diagram for Return to Sender?
Students can create a visual plot diagram by dividing the story into six parts—Title, Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution—then drawing or selecting images that represent each major event, and writing brief descriptions for each section.
What are the main steps in a plot diagram activity for middle school?
The main steps are: 1) Separate the story into plot parts, 2) Identify key events for each part, 3) Create images representing these moments, and 4) Write descriptions explaining their significance. This activity builds comprehension and analytical skills.
Why is making a plot diagram helpful for understanding Return to Sender?
Making a plot diagram helps students recognize the narrative arc, remember important events, and see how characters and conflicts develop over time, deepening their understanding of both the story and literary structure.
What are some tips for teaching plot diagrams in grades 6-8?
Use clear examples, encourage students to use visuals and brief text, focus on identifying turning points, and discuss each plot part's role in the story. Interactive activities like storyboards can boost engagement and comprehension.
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