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. In this activity, students will create a storyboard capturing the narrative arc in a work with a six-cell storyboard containing the major parts of the plot diagram. For each cell, have students create a scene that follows the story in sequence using: Title, Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution. The Lions of Little Rock has many different subplots, so students may interpret these parts very differently. The example given is just one way to interpret the plot.
Plot Diagram Example
Exposition: This story takes place in 1958/1959, the year that many schools were closed in Little Rock during the time of segregation. Marlee, who starts 7th grade in September, is shy and doesn’t speak up about much. However, when the lives of her friends and family are threatened, she has no choice but to be loud and outspoken.
Rising Action: Marlee befriends the new girl, Liz, and they decide to work on an oral presentation together. When the day of the presentation arrives, Liz isn’t there and Marlee gives it by herself, speaking in front of her class for the very first time. Later, Marlee learns that Liz is Black, but was trying to pass for a white girl so she could attend the school. Liz will not be returning to school.
Climax: Red finds dynamite and takes it with him. When Liz and Marlee find it in his car, they take all of it, except 2 sticks. Marlee and Liz continue to get together and hang out; they even have secret names for each other so they can talk on the phone. When they get caught, they are not allowed to see each other anymore.
Falling Action: Marlee and her mom go to Betty Jean’s house to drop something off, and Liz is there with Betty Jean’s son, Curtis. Marlee sees Red’s car drive by several times and warns everyone to get to the back of the house. He throws a brick to break the window, and then he throws the dynamite into the house.
Resolution: New school board members were appointed, and teachers who lost their jobs for belonging to integration groups were rehired. The following school year, schools reopened and a small number of Black students attended. Marlee and Liz remained friends, but would only be able to talk on the phone... for now.
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 Lions of Little Rock
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- 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 short description of each of the examples in the plot diagram.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
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. In this activity, students will create a storyboard capturing the narrative arc in a work with a six-cell storyboard containing the major parts of the plot diagram. For each cell, have students create a scene that follows the story in sequence using: Title, Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution. The Lions of Little Rock has many different subplots, so students may interpret these parts very differently. The example given is just one way to interpret the plot.
Plot Diagram Example
Exposition: This story takes place in 1958/1959, the year that many schools were closed in Little Rock during the time of segregation. Marlee, who starts 7th grade in September, is shy and doesn’t speak up about much. However, when the lives of her friends and family are threatened, she has no choice but to be loud and outspoken.
Rising Action: Marlee befriends the new girl, Liz, and they decide to work on an oral presentation together. When the day of the presentation arrives, Liz isn’t there and Marlee gives it by herself, speaking in front of her class for the very first time. Later, Marlee learns that Liz is Black, but was trying to pass for a white girl so she could attend the school. Liz will not be returning to school.
Climax: Red finds dynamite and takes it with him. When Liz and Marlee find it in his car, they take all of it, except 2 sticks. Marlee and Liz continue to get together and hang out; they even have secret names for each other so they can talk on the phone. When they get caught, they are not allowed to see each other anymore.
Falling Action: Marlee and her mom go to Betty Jean’s house to drop something off, and Liz is there with Betty Jean’s son, Curtis. Marlee sees Red’s car drive by several times and warns everyone to get to the back of the house. He throws a brick to break the window, and then he throws the dynamite into the house.
Resolution: New school board members were appointed, and teachers who lost their jobs for belonging to integration groups were rehired. The following school year, schools reopened and a small number of Black students attended. Marlee and Liz remained friends, but would only be able to talk on the phone... for now.
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 Lions of Little Rock
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- 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 short description of each of the examples in the plot diagram.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about The Lions of Little Rock Visual Summary
Encourage Deeper Thinking with Character Analysis Activities
Foster critical thinking by having students analyze main characters' decisions and growth throughout the novel. Students gain a richer understanding of character motivations and themes, building empathy and insight.
Select key moments that reveal character traits
Identify scenes where a character makes an important choice or reacts strongly. These moments help students notice how characters change and what influences their actions.
Guide students to use text evidence
Ask students to find direct quotes or passages that show the character’s feelings, thoughts, or actions. Using text evidence supports close reading and strengthens analytical skills.
Create character maps or graphic organizers
Have students organize their findings in visual formats, like a character map or T-chart. This makes it easy to compare traits, motivations, and changes across the story.
Facilitate classroom discussions on character choices
Lead small group or whole-class conversations about why characters act as they do and how they might respond differently. Discussions encourage students to think deeply and consider multiple perspectives.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Lions of Little Rock Visual Summary
What is a plot diagram and how can I use it to teach The Lions of Little Rock?
A plot diagram is a visual tool that outlines the structure of a story, including exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution. To teach The Lions of Little Rock, have students create a six-cell storyboard, with each cell representing a part of the plot. This helps students understand key events and literary elements.
How do I create a visual plot diagram for The Lions of Little Rock with my class?
Start by dividing the story into six parts: Title, Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution. Ask students to draw or use images to represent each stage, then write a short description for each. This activity reinforces story comprehension and sequencing skills.
What are the major plot points in The Lions of Little Rock?
Major plot points include: Exposition (Marlee starts 7th grade during segregation in Little Rock), Rising Action (Marlee befriends Liz, discovers her secret), Climax (danger involving dynamite), Falling Action (attack on Betty Jean's house), and Resolution (schools reopen, Marlee and Liz maintain their friendship).
Why is creating a storyboard helpful for understanding The Lions of Little Rock?
Creating a storyboard helps students visualize the sequence of events and subplots, making it easier to grasp character motivations, themes, and conflict resolution. It supports different learning styles and deepens literary analysis skills.
What are some tips for helping students identify key events in The Lions of Little Rock?
Encourage students to focus on moments when characters face challenges or make important decisions. Ask guiding questions about how events change the course of the story. Reviewing the exposition, climax, and resolution provides structure for identifying key events.
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