Simple Plot Structure Scaffolds

In an attempt to move away from the sometimes complex, yet limiting, structure of the traditional plot mountain, I have created a simplified structure which I use with all of my classes to teach narrative. I use these resources at the planning stage, so that all of my students begin drafting with an existing overview of their story that they can refer back to.

In this structure, the story is made up of:

1. Where - an orientation of place, context and setting;
2. Who - establishment of character/s and their motivations;
3. Problem - what the problem/conflict is, why the problem occurs, how the character reacts to the problem, and how the problem impacts the character;
4. Tension - the steps the character takes to resolve the problem, which may or may not be successful; and
5. Resolve - how the story is resolved and whether the character succeeds or not.

This resource includes both the graphic purple plot mountain which I use with students in years 7-8, and an extended table form (which asks students to also consider audience, theme, tone, and language features in their planning) which I use with students in years 9-10.