Along with the plot diagram, Freytag's Pyramid is a visual and memorable way to teach the key features of narrative. Every story has a beginning, middle, and end. In between, the author builds the reader’s knowledge of the characters and setting, develops the conflict(s), introduces the turning point, and then (slowly or quickly) brings the story to a close. Understanding plot is among the most basic skills needed to read, enjoy, and gain insights from literature.
Useful Teacher Links:
This free PowerPoint presentation from Read-Write-Think provides a basic overview of plot and some graphic organizers (including Freytag's Pyramid) that can help students to broaden their understanding:
http://www.readwritethink.org/files/resources/lesson_images/lesson904/MidPlotStructure.pps#2
Read more about Gustav Freytag here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gustav_Freytag
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Word of the Week: Freytag's Pyramid
