Applying Plot Terms to a Short Story

Learning Resource Type

Learning Activity

Subject Area

English Language Arts

Grade(s)

5

Overview

This is a Google Slides presentation with a brief introduction to Rudyard Kipling, author of Rikki Tikki Tavi and an explanation of the conflict in the story between the mongoose and the cobras. The story is presented in both audio and pdf format. Attached to the Slides presentation is a digital plot diagram for students to complete as they read.

This activity was created as a result of the ALEX Resource Development Summit.

Phase

After/Explain/Elaborate
English Language Arts (2021) Grade(s): 5

ELA21.5.17

Demonstrate comprehension of text by asking and responding to questions about literary elements used in the text.

UP:ELA21.5.17

Vocabulary

  • Demonstrate
  • Comprehension
  • Literary elements

Knowledge

Students know:
  • Literary elements within a story include the theme, plot, and point of view.
  • Comprehension can be demonstrated by asking and answering questions about a text.

Skills

Students are able to:
  • Ask questions about literary elements used in the text to demonstrate comprehension.
  • Respond to questions about literary elements used in the text to demonstrate comprehension.

Understanding

Students understand that:
  • They can show they understood a story they read by asking and answering questions about specific literary elements.

Learning Objectives

Students will accurately complete a plot diagram identifying the main characters, conflicts, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution. 

 

Activity Details

  • This activity is meant as a summative assessment and should be completed independently.
  • The teacher will either assign a digital copy of the plot diagram in  Google Slides document or provide the students with a printout copy. 
  • In the first three slides of the Google presentation, students will gain background knowledge of the story and author. 
  • During or after reading, the students will fill out the plot diagram reflecting knowledge of the literary terms on the plot diagram as well as displaying their overall comprehension of the story. 

Assessment Strategies

The teacher will collect the plot diagram pages, either printed or digitally, and review them as means of assessing the students' understanding of the learning objective.

Variation Tips

  • "Rikki Tikki Tavi" can also be found on the website CommonLit.org with a free educator account.
  • In the fourth slide, there is a link to a pdf version of the story, an audio version, and a link to make a copy of a digital plot diagram.
  • There is a short video version of the story that students often enjoy viewing after they read. It can be found in various places, but here is one link: https://vimeo.com/528853471

Background / Preparation

  • The teacher will view the slideshow, verifying that all links are working.
  • The teacher will provide a printed copy of the plot diagram (also linked on slide 4 of the slideshow). 

Learning Activity (Before)

A Basic Review of Plot Elements (Starring Spongebob Squarepants)

Total Duration

31 to 45 Minutes

Learning Activity (During)

Using Picture Books to Identify Plot Elements

Learning Activity (After)

Applying Plot Terms to a Short Story
Rikki Tikki Tavi Story with Audio & Plot Diagram
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1DPdIw8177H5aSeWEgBEf4hzRgYyHnO9IguypYwv…

Approved Date

Owner (Author)

jacynoelle
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