Identifying the Elements of A Plot

DiagramPlot Structure using ‘Finding Nemo’

Plot (definition)•Plot is the

organized pattern or sequence of events that make up a story. Every plot is made up of a series of incidents that are related to one another.

Plot Diagram

2

1

3

4

5

1. Exposition• This usually occurs at the beginning of a

story. Here the characters are introduced. We also learn about the setting of the story. Most importantly, we are introduced to the main conflict (main problem).

Finding Nemo:• Marlin’s cautious nature is shown when he

goes in and out of the home indefinitely, checking for danger.

• Nemo’s ‘lucky fin’ is revealed, showing that he was physically affected by the barracuda attack.

• We also see that Nemo is a regular kid, annoyed by his father’s worrying.

• Marlin is socially awkward, revealed through his terribly unfunny joke.

1. Exposition

2. Rising Action• This part of the story

begins with the inciting incident. This is the event that set off the rest of the action. A building of interest or suspense occurs.

In Finding Nemo, the conflict truly begins when Nemo is taken by the divers. This is known as the inciting incident. It is the beginning of the rising action.

2. Rising Action

Finding Nemo:1. Marlin encounters the sharks.2. Marlin goes through the jellyfish.3. Nemo gains the friendship of the aquarium

fish.4. Nemo attempts to escape the aquarium.

2. Rising Action

3. Climax• This is the turning point of the

story. Usually the main character comes face to face with a conflict and a lot of action takes place..

Finding Nemo:The search for Nemo intersects with Nemo’s own adventures in the dentist’s office. Nemo escapes, with some help from Gill, but Marlin thinks Nemo is dead.

3. Climax

4. Falling Action•All loose

ends of the plot are tied up. The conflict(s) and climax are taken care of.

Finding Nemo:Nemo tries to save Dori when she is caught in the fishing net. He tells the fish to swim down. Marlin learns to trust his son.

4. Falling Action

5. Resolution•The story comes to a reasonable ending.

Finding Nemo:• Marlin finally tells his whole joke.• Marlin is no longer overprotective of his son.• Nemo is confident and happy.

NOT examples of the resolution:• “And they lived happily ever after.”• “And he never made the same mistake again.”

5. Resolution

Putting It All Together1. Exposition 2. Rising Action

3. Climax

4. Falling Action5. Resolution

Beginning of Story

Middle of Story

End of Story