Plot Elements
Types of Conflict
Plot/Conflict in "Eleven"
Characterization
Making Meaning
100

The sequence of events that make up a story is called what?

The Plot

100

A struggle that takes place inside a character’s own mind or emotions and requires them to make a choice/decision is known as this type of conflict.

Character vs. Self
100

How does Rachel describe the red sweater that Mrs. Price forces her to take?

Ugly, smelly, repulsive.
100

True or False: "Inside" traits refer to what a character looks like on the outside.

False

100

Which image from the story does Rachel use to explain what growing older feels like layer by layer?

Onion, Rings on a Tree Trunk, Russian Dolls

200

This literary element tells the reader both where and when a story takes place and introduces character.

Exposition

200

Percy Jackson fighting against ancient Greek gods is an example of this specific conflict type.

Character vs. Supernatural

200

Sylvia Saldivar saying, "I think it belongs to Rachel," and Mrs. Price forcing Rachel to take the sweater represent which part of the story's structure?

Rising Action


200

Which of these is NOT a good way to learn about a character: what they say, what they do, what others say about them, or the illustration on the front cover?


The Illustration


200

The quote, "And you don't feel eleven at all. You feel like you're still ten..." helps the reader understand which major element of the story?

Theme

300
What is the definition of the main conflict?

This is the main problem or struggle between opposing forces in a story.

300

A character standing up against an unfair school rule or societal norm is an example of this conflict type.

Character vs. Society

300

Rachel arguing with Mrs. Price and Sylvia Saldivar over who owns the sweater is an example of this type of conflict.

Character vs Character


300

Describe one "outside" physical trait and one "inside" personality/emotional trait of Rachel in "Eleven."

Outside: She is skinny / eleven years old. Inside: Sensitive, shy,

300

What does Rachel mean when she says that when you are eleven, you are also ten, nine, eight, seven, six, five, four, three, two, and one?

The idea that aging happens gradually, and your past feelings and younger selves stay inside you even as you grow older.

400

What is the definition of theme?

The central message, lesson, or moral that an author wants the reader to learn from a story is known as this.

400

Two characters arguing or physically fighting with each other represents this type of conflict.

Character vs. Character


400

What is a character vs self conflict in "Eleven"?

Rachel wanting to yell and scream at her teacher, but freezing up and crying instead, represents this specific type of conflict.

400

When an author shows a character's traits through their actions, dialogue, and thoughts rather than stating them directly, it is called what type of characterization?

Indirect Characterization

400

Name one moment in the story where Rachel acts or feels younger than eleven years old.

When she cries uncontrollably at her desk in front of the class, or when she wants to sit on her mother's lap because she is sad.

500
What is the climax of the story? You must include both components for credit.

The point of highest emotion and the main conflict is resolved.

500

What is required to make a story interesting and engaging?

Characters, Plot, Conflict

500

Sandra Cisneros details Rachel waking up on her 11th birthday, going to school, and dealing with the red sweater situation. Together, these events form which element of the story?

The Plot

500

What "inside" trait does Rachel demonstrate when she opens her mouth to tell Mrs. Price the sweater isn't hers, but "nothing comes out"?

Being intimidated, soft-spoken, shy, or fearful of authority

500

Based on the whole story, state one complete theme statement for "Eleven."

Answers will vary. Growing up is complicated and you don't automatically feel older on your birthday. Or Unfair situations can make us feel small and powerless no matter how old we are.

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