Things You'll Need:
- Sequence Graphic Organizers, freehand or printed
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Step 1
Use a cycle sequence graphic organizer to figure out how one incident in a story can relate and link to another in a circular sequence or revolving cycle of three to seven events. This applies to stories with no distinct beginning or end but rather a recurring sequence of events. These diagrams highlight the main incident of a story to illustrate the broader picture. Start with the main incident positioned in a circle at the top of the page. Working in a clockwise direction, draw an arrow to the next occurrence. The end result establishes how the first incident comes full circle and illustrates how each action affects successive incidents.
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Step 2
Employ a timeline graphic organizer to evaluate stories with historical background. This approach sequentially places events in a chronological order providing a comprehensive timeframe of the story line. Once the story is visually plotted, students will single out connections and a continuum of events. This formula is suited for stories that have a distinct beginning or end. Draw a vertical or horizontal straight line with a line positioned at different points of time so that the student can label important data and dates for easy reference.
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Step 3
Apply a sequence graphic organizer known as a "bridging snapshot." Events are outlined in a flowing S pattern. Arranged like an unraveling film reel, students can visually grasp complex plots and progressions. The purpose of this format is to assist in identifying, developing, and analyzing a story's elements in a progressive strategy outline. Arrange the boxes or bubbles in a flowing pattern that corresponds to the letter S. Place arrows between each shape to show the forward development of the story.
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Step 4
Highlight a story's events with a sequence chain organizer. This organizer facilitates the understanding of how story events are interconnected in a linkage. Use this organizer to chronicle events by marking out the order of a story's progress to analyze its plot. Create a thick, linking chain. Start the link with the first incident and in the middle space of the chain give supporting details. Repeat this strategy until students are able to reach the conclusion at the end of the chain. This visual representation of successive events shows how one incident depends on the next link to bring about a cause and effect which collectively tells the complete story.
