Listening: Listening for Gist B1 - Lesson 2: Following the Plot of a Simple Story or Narrative

Following the Plot of a Simple Story CEFR Level B1 Lesson Goals In this lesson, you will practice listening to a simple narrative (a story) and understanding its plot —the order of events from beginning to end. Understanding a Story's Structure When we listen to a story, we need to follow the plot . The plot is simply the series of events that make up the story. What happens first? What happens next? What happens at the end? Most simple stories, or narratives , have three clear parts: The Beginning: This part introduces the characters (who is in the story?) and the setting (where is the story?). The Middle: This describes the main actions or a problem that the characters face. The End: This shows the result or the conclusion of the actions. How does the story finish? Key Tip: Listen for Sequence Words Speakers often use signal words to help you follow the plot. As you listen, pay attention to words that show the sequence , or order, of events. These words act like signposts for the story's t…