The Rollercoaster
the top of the plot diagram
climax
the end of the story
resolution
Debbie wants to go to her friend's birthday party, but her grandma is in town for a visit. She doesn't want to hurt her grandma's feelings by not showing up to the visit, but also doesn't want to miss the birthday party.
individual vs self
when and where the story takes place
setting
This type of character is the main one in the story — the “hero” or central figure.
protagonist
the "uphill" part of the plot diagram
rising action
introduces the character(s) and setting
exposition
Margo and her sister are arguing because her sister keeps wearing Margo's clothes to school
individual vs individual
usually the main character, also known as the "good guy"
protagonist
This type of character opposes the protagonist and creates conflict.
Antagonist
the start of the plot diagram
exposition
the most exciting incident that happens in the story
climax
A ghost keeps haunting the abandoned library so Scooby-Doo and the gang go inside to investigate. While inside, the ghost jumps out and scares Shaggy.
individual vs supernatural
the problem in a story
conflict
This type of character stays the same throughout the story, without major change or growth.
a. Flat
b. Round
c. Static
static
the end of the plot diagram
resolution
the events that lead up to the climax
rising action
Justin steals a Gucci belt from the store and is caught. While in court, he is sentenced to 18 months in juvenile detention.
individual vs society
causes conflict between the main character and their goals, usually known as the "bad guy"
antagonist
This type of character is well-developed, complex, and shows many traits — both strengths and weaknesses.
a. Static
b. Round
c. Dynamic
Round
the "downhill" portion of the plot diagram
falling action
the events that follow the climax and lead to the resolution
falling action
Hannah cannot get her computer to keep a charge. Every time she tries to turn it on, the light flashes repeatedly even though it has been charging all day.
individual vs technology
when a character stays the same throughout the story
static
This type of character undergoes a significant internal change — such as a shift in beliefs, personality, or understanding.
a. Stock
b. Static
c. Dynamic
Dynamic