Story Map
Define Story Map
A reading strategy to aid a reader in learning the elements of a story or book. A Story Map is designed in the format of a graphic organizer to demonstrate the separate details of the story such as characters, plot, setting, issues and solutions.
Purpose of a Story Map
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To improve a reader’s comprehension
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To provide visual organization for the elements of a story
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To help readers learn to organize information
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Graphic Organizer
There are different types of Story Map organizers and one is included here as a PDF.
For younger students the use of a more basic outline of a story, using a simple 3 part map may be best. It would include: beginning of the story, middle of the story and ending of the story. For older students a Story Map can be expanded to include traits of a character, details of sub settings and so on.
How to Use a Story Map Organizer
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Read the story or book to a reader without interruptions.
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Discuss the main elements of the story based on what they heard.
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Provide each reader with a copy of the Story Map Organizer and explain how to use it.
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Allow readers to either listen to the story being read again or read the story independently as they complete the story map.
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Upon completely reading the story, readers should fill in any blank parts.