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Learn: Plot Guide for AQA GCSE English Literature
AQA GCSE English Literature specification
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Welcome!Today we'll explore how plot functions in literature, focusing on the AQA GCSE English Literature texts. Understanding plot is key to analysing stories effectively!
What is Plot?The plot is the sequence of events in a story. It includes the beginning, middle, and end, showing how events unfold and connect. The plot drives forward the themes, characters, and conflicts in the text.
Structure of PlotMost stories follow a structure with five key stages: exposition (introduction to characters and setting), rising action (building tension), climax (turning point), falling action (events leading to resolution), and resolution (conclusion).
Which part of the plot introduces the main characters and setting?
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Conflict in PlotConflict is essential to plot development. It can be internal (within a character) or external (between characters, society, or nature). Conflict creates tension and drives the story forward.
Which of the following are examples of external conflict? (Select all that apply)
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How Plot Shapes ThemesThe way events unfold in a plot often highlights key themes. For example, in An Inspector Calls, the plot emphasises themes of social responsibility and guilt through the revelations about each character.
In Macbeth, the {{blank0}} is when Macbeth murders King Duncan, leading to the {{blank1}} of his eventual downfall.
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Foreshadowing in PlotForeshadowing is a technique where hints are given about future events in the story. For example, in Romeo and Juliet, the prologue foreshadows their tragic fate.
Match the items on the left with their correct pairs on the right
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Review Time!Great work! You've learned about plot structure, conflict, themes, and techniques like foreshadowing. Let's test your understanding with a few questions.
What drives the plot forward?
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Which techniques create tension in a plot? (Select all that apply)
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The {{blank0}} of a story is the turning point, while the {{blank1}} leads to the conclusion.
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Match the items on the left with their correct pairs on the right
Start the lesson to answer this matching question
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