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Plot

The plot of a narrative is the sequence of events as told.

Introduction/orientation → main body includes rising action caused by conflict → actions and reactions → suspense → climax (high point where suspense is at a peak) falling action → resolution (conclusion/ending)

Select the links below for definitions of plot elements.

introduction/orientation

main body (middle or development)

climax

resolution/conclusion

Conflict

Suspense is what keeps us guessing and reading or listening. It is what keeps you on the edge of your seat. Suspense is created through the conflict in a story. There are different types of conflict in stories.

Look at the frames in the comic strip of the link below. They are not in a logical plot sequence and do not tell a story. Cut out each frame and rearrange them in an order that tells a story.

Match the different types of conflict to their definitions in the next activity.

1
Conflict in narrative

Match the different types of conflict to their definitions.

a)
b)
c)
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Complete the multichoice activity to identify the type of conflict in the extracts provided.

2

"Go on, gutless, do it!" urged Mel. Teresa's hand hovered above the lipgloss lying on the chemist counter. She had never stolen anything.

Teresa blinked back tears as she thought about what her parents would think if they knew she was planning to steal something.

a)
b)
c)
Yes, this is inner conflict as Teresa battles with her conscience. Her morals are challenged. She knows it is wrong to shoplift.Incorrect. This is inner conflict. Teresa is battling with her conscience. She knows it is wrong to steal. Your answer has been saved.
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3

Matt struggled to light the waterproof match against the biting wind. The desert sun had dropped and so had the temperature. He did not want to think about the night that lay ahead of him.

a)
b)
c)
Yes, this is environmental conflict, although this does have an element of inner conflict as Matt battles with his mind to overcome doubts and fears.Incorrect. This is environmental conflict. Matt is trying to survive in the desert. Your answer has been saved.
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4

Sandra swam against the rip with all her might. The shore was quickly moving away from her. Her arms ached and her heart pounded against her chest. The more she struggled the worse she swam.

a)
b)
c)
Correct. Sandra is battling to survive against the power of the ocean and so this is an example of environmental conflict.Incorrect. This is environmental conflict as Sandra battles to survive against the power of the ocean.Your answer has been saved.
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5

Ken felt the punch but didn't see the fist that served it up to him. He was on the ground before he knew it with the monster, Sam, kicking him in the ribs.

a)
b)
c)
Yes, this is character-to-character conflict. Ken is fighting another character, Sam.Incorrect. Try again.Your answer has been saved.
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