Tree Metaphor

1
Tree Metaphor
For Reading and Writing Plot

• Adapted from John Jakes, author

2
Plot Structure

• Setting Introduce the main character
  (protagonist), antagonist, and setting (the
  tree)1st paragraph of a short story.
• Conflict Introduce the Problem. The main
  character climbs the tree.
• Rising Action Tension builds. Throw rocks at the
  main character, attempting to knock the
  protagonist out of the tree.
• Climax Resolve the problem. Get the protagonist
  out of the tree. Either climb down or fall out.
• Resolution Return to normalcy. Protagonist walks
  or carried away from the treeor buried under the
  tree.

3
Strategies

• Read a story. Identify the plot parts. Enter
  responses on the related slide.
• Outline a story idea. Type the plot parts on the
  related slide.ExtensionFlesh out (write) each
  plot part on the related slide for a 1st draft.

4
Setting Introduce the main character
(protagonist), antagonist, and setting (the tree).
5
Conflict Introduce the Problem. The main
character climbs the tree.
6
Rising Action Tension builds. Throw rocks at
the main character, attempting to knock the
protagonist out of the tree.
7
Climax Resolve the problem (climax). Get the
protagonist out of the tree. Either climb down or
fall out.
8
Resolution Return to normalcy. Protagonist
walks or carried away from the treeor buried
under the tree.

9
Tree Plot Structure Review

• Setting Describe the tree.
• Conflict How is the main character up the tree?
• Rising Action Throw rocks. Try to knock the
  protagonist out of the tree.
• Climax Get the protagonist out of the tree.
  Either climb down or fall out.
• Resolution
• Protagonist walks or carried away from the
  treeor buried under the tree.