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 From the Desk of Zoe Washington. Students should identify major turning points in the novel such as the Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution.
Exposition: Zoe is a 12 year old girl who loves baking. Living in Boston, Massachusetts with her mom and her step-father, Zoe dreams of being on TV and winning a baking competition. She spends her time interning at her mom’s friend’s bakery, and hopes to get enough experience to qualify for the show. Meanwhile, she receives a letter from her birth father, Marcus, who has been in jail since before she was born. Zoe learns that her father may very well not be guilty of the grizzly crime that put him in jail, and she stops at nothing to prove it.
Rising Action: Zoe receives a letter from her father in jail, and realizes he’s been sending them for years.
Climax: Zoe finds the woman who was with Marcus when the crime was committed, potentially proving his innocence.
Falling Action: Although her mom and step-father are upset that she lied, they followed through with the possible alibi and got a lawyer for Marcus.
Resolution: Marcus is able to appeal and is found not guilty. He is back with his family where he belongs.
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Due Date:
Objective: Create a visual plot diagram of From the Desk of Zoe Washington.
Student Instructions:
Requirements: