Understanding the Somebody Wanted But So Then (SWBST) Framework
The Somebody Wanted But So Then (SWBST) framework is a powerful tool used in reading comprehension and writing instruction. It helps students to break down stories into their most basic components, making it easier to understand and analyze the plot. In this article, we’ll explore the SWBST framework, its benefits, and provide a worksheet to help you practice.
What is the SWBST Framework?
The SWBST framework is a method for analyzing stories by identifying the following elements:
- Somebody: The main character or protagonist of the story.
- Wanted: The main character’s goal or desire.
- But: The obstacle or challenge that prevents the main character from achieving their goal.
- So: The action the main character takes to overcome the obstacle.
- Then: The consequence or outcome of the main character’s action.
Benefits of Using the SWBST Framework
Using the SWBST framework can have numerous benefits for readers and writers. Some of these benefits include:
- Improved comprehension: By breaking down a story into its most basic components, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the plot and characters.
- Enhanced critical thinking: The SWBST framework encourages readers to think critically about the story and its elements.
- Better writing skills: By understanding the basic structure of a story, writers can create more compelling and engaging narratives.
- Increased engagement: The SWBST framework can make reading and writing more engaging and fun, as it provides a framework for analyzing and creating stories.
How to Use the SWBST Framework
Using the SWBST framework is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Read a story: Choose a story to analyze, either a short story, novel, or even a picture book.
- Identify the Somebody: Determine who the main character is and what their role is in the story.
- Identify the Wanted: Determine what the main character wants or desires.
- Identify the But: Determine what obstacle or challenge prevents the main character from achieving their goal.
- Identify the So: Determine what action the main character takes to overcome the obstacle.
- Identify the Then: Determine the consequence or outcome of the main character’s action.
📝 Note: It's essential to remember that not all stories will fit perfectly into the SWBST framework. Some stories may have multiple Somebodys, Wanteds, Buts, Sos, and Thens. Be flexible and adapt the framework to fit the story.
SWBST Worksheet
Here’s a worksheet to help you practice using the SWBST framework:
| Story Title | Somebody | Wanted | But | So | Then |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ____________________________________ | ____________________________________ | ____________________________________ | ____________________________________ | ____________________________________ | ____________________________________ |
Example: The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein
Here’s an example of how the SWBST framework can be applied to the story “The Giving Tree” by Shel Silverstein:
- Somebody: The boy
- Wanted: The boy wants to play with the tree and eventually wants money and a house.
- But: The tree cannot fulfill the boy’s desires on its own.
- So: The tree sacrifices its own needs to fulfill the boy’s desires, giving him apples to sell and branches to build a house.
- Then: The boy grows old and returns to the tree, which is now nothing but a stump. The boy is grateful for the tree’s sacrifices.
📝 Note: This is just one possible interpretation of the story. The beauty of the SWBST framework lies in its flexibility and the different perspectives it can offer.
As you practice using the SWBST framework, you’ll become more comfortable analyzing stories and identifying their components. Remember to be flexible and adapt the framework to fit the story. With time and practice, you’ll become proficient in using the SWBST framework to enhance your reading and writing skills.
In summary, the Somebody Wanted But So Then framework is a powerful tool for analyzing stories and improving reading and writing skills. By identifying the basic components of a story, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the plot and characters, and writers can create more compelling narratives.
Related Terms:
- swbst anchor chart
- somebody wanted but so printable
- swbst chart printable
- somebody wanted but so examples
- somebody wanted but so organizer
- somebody wanted but so strategy
