For a story to “work,” it needs to have a beginning, middle, and end. If we don’t start somewhere, we won’t be able to build momentum. If we don’t have a middle, we’ll get off to a start and then arrive at the end without preparation. If we don’t have an ending, we’ll be left wondering what happened. Each of those parts – beginning, middle, ending – are part of the story structure. Another way to describe it is with the plot diagram: Exposition, Inciting Incident, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, Denouement/Resolution.
What is the resolution?
The resolution is the part of the story that lets the reader know what the new normal will look like.
Why does it matter?
The resolution matters because the reader knows that the inciting incident changed everything. There is no going back to what used to be the norm. For one reason, the denouement results in the character gaining insight into themself that changes how they view the world. For another, once the falling action is over – the party is cleaned up after – what is the next step the character will take? That is the resolution.
Some examples
In Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maude Montgomery, the Cuthberts and Anne have become a family. Their next adventures will take place as a secure place for each of them. In Beezus and Ramona by Beverly Cleary, Ramona is beginning to see herself as her own person who is not a baby. Beezus is able to view Ramona as a future friend. These changes in their understanding of themselves will guide them as they go forward.
Help your child practice
Make up a story with your child. When you finish up the falling action, ask them what happens next. And next. And next. Ask them if the character has changed at all. Ask them why. Ask them what would life be like if the inciting incident had never happened.
Bottom Line
The ability to see the structure behind a narrative won’t just serve your child well in English class. It will also make a difference when they use critical thinking skills to solve a problem. The idea that there is a rhythm and shape to what has happened will help them to organize their thoughts and view events as cause and effect. And result – resolution.