Plot

The plot of a story is the events that happen within the story. Some stories follow a straightforward plot line. The story usually begins with an interesting opening where we meet the characters and are introduced to the setting. Next, a problem arises that sets the story in motion. The action and tension continues to rise (rising action) until we reach the climactic moment, the moment when the conflict finally comes to a head. Following this, the action calms down (falling action) and finally the conflict is dealt with and resolved in some way. In fairy tales, this is the point where everyone lives happily ever after! Opening (sets the scene) ResolutionProblem Risingaction Falling action Climax READING Look at this list of the plot points from the well-known fairy tale Jack and the Beanstalk. They are not in the correct order. In your activity book (see page 7), sort the plot points into the correct order. (a) Jack meets a man. He sells the cow for magic beans. (b) Jack and his mum live happily ever after. (c) Jack goes down the beanstalk. (d) The next morning, Jack sees the beanstalk and decides to climb it. (e) The giant follows Jack. (f) Jack chops down the beanstalk and the giant dies. (g) Jack is sent to sell the cow. (h) Jack’s mum gets angry and throws the beans out of the window. (i) Jack enters the castle at the top of the beanstalk. ( j) Jack steals the harp and the hen. (k) Jack sees a giant and hides. (l) Setting: Jack’s House (m) Jack sees a singing harp and a hen that lays golden eggs. (n) The giant falls asleep. (o) The giant wakes up. (p) Characters: Jack, Mum, Cow, Man, Giant ACT IVITY ©The Educational Company of Ireland