1. This story is set in Dublin in 1916. What information in the story tells you that this is the case?
2. Using at least three adjectives, describe the main protagonist in the story.
3. Write a short paragraph explaining why you think this story has been included in this collection. Start
your paragraph: ‘This story was chosen to feature in this collection, “Friend or Foe”, because …’
P. 4
Go to your Writing Skills Book to write your own opening paragraph to a short story using the start of ‘The Inside Job’.
K PROTAGONIST (N.):
the leading character or one of the major characters in a play, fi lm, novel, etc.
Revising the Five-Part Story Structure
Short stories are often told in fi ve parts.
1. Beginning: The setting is established and the main character or characters are introduced.
3. Development of plot: The plot is developed and advanced.
4. Climax: The plot and action lead up to the dramatic climax in the story.
2. Action and plot: The action gets underway and the plot is established.
In Collection 6 you will examine short stories in more detail, concentrating on effective openings (the beginning + the action and plot), first point of conflict (development of plot), climax and endings/ resolutions.
5. Ending: The story comes to an end.
Examine ‘The Inside Job’ and identify each of these fi ve parts of the short story.
