Then Discover Three Subplot Elements. Ignore Any Unnecessary

Name______

plot and subplot

The Thickening Plot

Read each paragraph below. Decide on the main plot or story synopsis,

then discover three subplot elements. Ignore any unnecessary

details that don't relate to the main plot.

I. A dragon roams the kingdom in search of new victims. News comes to the village that fourteen sheep have been barbequed by the beast as they grazed in the common pasture. Now the Lord Mayor is placing a curfew on all villagers. Gildren complains that her darning needles cannot be found. Oh, heavens! The roof of the abbey has caving in! The dragon settled upon it after a short flight, and it could not bear his weight.

Plot Subplot I

Subplot 2

Subplot 3

2. Today was a thrilling adventure from start to finish. A spider monkey ran off with my hat, and I could not get it back! We stopped to sketch the orchids, growing in brilliant colors from the trunks of the trees. While hiking up a steep trail, we heard a macaw screeching to its mate. And to finish the day, Grandma called to wish Mom a happy birthday. I miss Mom, but I'm glad Grandma and Grandpa brought me here to the Monteverde Cloud Forest of Costa Rica.

Plot Subplot I

Subplot 2

Subplot 3

3. Aye, it was hard time for us all. In the wild storm, the mast snapped. There we were with five of our crew fallen overboard and no lines with which to reach them. The Santo Cruz was wallowing in the sea, and we were in danger of drowning. At all hours, the men worked the pumps to empty the hold of the briny sea. In spare moments, I taught our cabin boy do scrimshaw, which is what we sailors call our sketches on whale bone. It was a dark time that I will never forget.

Plot Subplot I

Subplot 2

Subplot 3