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 The Book Thief. 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 The Book Thief.
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 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 The Book Thief. 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 The Book Thief.
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 The Book Thief Summary
Plan a collaborative plot diagram activity with small groups
Assign students to small groups to encourage teamwork and diverse perspectives. Collaboration helps students discuss and debate key plot points, deepening their understanding of the novel.
Distribute different plot sections to each group
Give each group a specific part of the plot (e.g., Exposition, Climax). This focus allows students to dive deeper into their assigned section and become 'experts' on that portion of the story.
Guide groups to create visual representations
Encourage each group to draw or digitally design a scene that captures key events and emotions from their plot section. Visuals make abstract plot points more concrete and memorable for all students.
Have groups present and explain their scenes to the class
Invite each group to share their visual and reasoning for choosing specific events. Presentations build confidence and reinforce comprehension as students teach their peers.
Combine all group visuals into a class plot diagram display
Arrange the completed visuals in sequence on a bulletin board or digital platform. This collective display celebrates student work and provides a valuable reference for future discussions or assessments.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Book Thief Summary
How can I create a visual plot diagram for The Book Thief?
To create a visual plot diagram for The Book Thief, divide the story into key elements: Title, Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution. Illustrate each part with relevant scenes and characters, and write a brief description for each to show how the plot develops.
What are the main parts of a plot diagram in The Book Thief?
The main parts of a plot diagram for The Book Thief are: Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution. Each section highlights a different stage in the story’s narrative arc, helping students understand how the plot unfolds.
Why is making a plot diagram useful for teaching The Book Thief?
Making a plot diagram helps students visually organize major events in The Book Thief, reinforces understanding of story structure, and deepens comprehension of literary elements such as conflict, climax, and resolution.
What is an example of a turning point in The Book Thief's plot?
An example of a turning point in The Book Thief is the moment when Liesel discovers Max hiding in the basement. This event dramatically shifts the story and raises the stakes for the characters.
What grade level is appropriate for a plot diagram activity on The Book Thief?
A plot diagram activity on The Book Thief is best suited for students in grades 6-8, aligning with developing to mastery level skills in literary analysis.
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