Where the Red Fern Grows
Plot Development
Authors must plan for three major elements – characters, setting, plot – when creating a story. Of the three narrative elements, plot is usually the most difficult to develop.
In every well-developed plot, the central character has a problem, or conflict, to overcome. The central problem can be a conflict between two people, between a character and the society in which she or he lives, between a character and nature, or it could even be a conflict within the main character. Whatever the conflict, the main character works through his or her problem throughout the novel or script. In doing so, the main character encounters a series of minor problems, or difficulties; however, these are all directed toward resolving the major conflict.
The structure of a plot can be compared to climbing a mountain. At the base of the mountain, the reader is introduced to the main characters and to the setting. The story develops and the reader is presented with a major problem to be overcome. All the while, the reader is steadily climbing the mountain until he or she reaches the peak, where the action reaches a high point, or climax. As soon as the climax has been reached, the action falls rapidly – just as a mountain climber would when rushing down the backside of a mountain. Once the action falls, the reader sees the central character resolve her or his problem.
The Plot Organization Map graphically illustrates how the plot is developed. Using the rising Action topics and Falling Action topics, complete the Plot Organization Map. Plot the events sequentially. Then fill in the characters, setting, problem, and resolution.
Rising Action
- Grandpa send for pups.
- Dogs nearly freeze on hunt.
- Nilly begs for pups.
- Rubin falls on Billy’s ax.
- Billy works for pups.
- Billy’s dogs win cups.
- Billy goes to town.
- Devil cat slashes Old Dan.
- Billy trains pups.
- Billy gives Mama over $300.
Falling Action
- Old Dan dies from wounds.
- Little Ann dies from grief.