"Ghost of the Lagoon" Summary

A common use for Storyboard That is to help students create a plot diagram of the events from a story. Not only is this a great way to teach the parts of the plot, but it reinforces major events and help students develop greater understanding of literary structures. Sometimes students will really have to think carefully about which events are major turning points in the plot.

Students can create a storyboard capturing the narrative arc in a work with a six-cell storyboard containing the major parts of the plot diagram. For each cell, have students create a scene that follows the story in sequence using: Exposition, Conflict, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution.

Example "Ghost of the Lagoon" Plot Diagram

Exposition

One night, Mako's grandfather tells him of a creature that inhabits the lagoon near the village. This creature, Tupa, has frightened the villagers for many years. King Opu Nui has offered a reward for Tupa’s capture.

Conflict

Mako’s mother believes it is time for Mako to learn the truth, and the main conflict arises. His father was one of the fishermen who was killed by the shark, Tupa. He vows to kill the shark to avenge his father and to claim the reward.

Rising Action

Mako's mother sends him on an errand. Mako and his dog, Afa, travel to a nearby island to pick some bananas and oranges. Mako imagines the reef as a great white shark, and dreams of defeating Tupa.

Climax

Mako sees Tupa’s dorsal fin circling the canoe. Afa falls into the water and is in danger! Mako kills the shark with his spear.

Falling Action

After Mako’s great victory, Mako ties the shark's tail to the boat and tows it behind him. He brings the shark back home.

Resolution

The villagers are thrilled that Mako has defeated Tupa. Mako will be awarded thirty acres of land and a canoe after a celebration feast the next day.