Creating a plot diagram not only helps students learn the parts of the plot, but it reinforces major events and helps 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 The Night Diary. Students should identify major turning points in the novel such as the Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution.
Exposition: The story takes place in 1947 in India, after it has become free from Britain. Tensions between the Hindus and the Muslims are high. Twelve-year-old Nisha, her twin brother Amil, their Papa, and their Dadi must flee from their home amidst the riots and violence, leaving behind their home and the lives that they once knew.
Rising Action: Nisha and her family pack up a small amount of their belongings and supplies and set out on foot towards Jodhpur, leaving Kazi behind for everyone’s safety.
Climax: After almost not surviving due to lack of food and water, the family finally arrives at uncle Rashid’s home to stay for a while.
Falling Action: Nisha befriends a Muslim neighborhood girl, and tells her that they are Hindu and staying with their Muslim uncle. Papa fears for their safety and the family must leave immediately.
Resolution: The family arrives at their apartment in Jodhpur and settles into their new life. Kazi makes the journey by himself and finds the family, and they are all together again.
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Due Date:
Objective: Create a visual plot diagram of The Night Diary.
Student Instructions: