Story map templates help students identify and organize the key elements of a story — characters, setting, problem, events and solution. CineoBoard story maps are printable PDFs and interactive online organizers.
Story map layouts
| Layout | Elements | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Basic story map | Characters, setting, problem, solution | Elementary reading |
| Detailed story map | Characters, setting, plot, theme, resolution | Upper elementary, middle school |
| Story elements | Who, where, when, what, why, how | Reading comprehension |
| Beginning/middle/end | 3-panel story sequence | Early elementary |
How to use story map templates
- Pick a story map layout above
- Open the template in Storyboard Creator
- Add the story title and author
- Fill in each story element (characters, setting, problem, solution)
- Add illustrations for each element
- Export PDF or share a live link
Story map fields
Each story map includes:
- Story title and author
- Characters (main and supporting)
- Setting (where and when)
- Problem or conflict
- Key events (beginning, middle, end)
- Solution or resolution
- Theme or lesson (optional)
Subject-specific story maps
- Fiction: Novels, short stories, picture books
- Non-fiction: Biographies, historical narratives, memoirs
- Fables and folktales: Traditional stories with clear moral lessons
- Movies and plays: Visual narratives with clear story structure
Customization tips
- Use the basic story map for younger students or simple stories
- Use the detailed story map for complex novels with subplots
- Add illustrations from the character library for visual engagement
- Pair with a plot diagram for deeper story structure analysis
FAQ
Are these story map templates free?
Yes. Open any template and use it in your class. CineoBoard offers a free 6-cell board. Full Creator is $4.99 for the first 30 days, then $11.99/month.
Can students edit story maps online?
Yes. Share a live link and students can drag character illustrations, type story elements and add text evidence directly in the browser.
Do you have story map templates for specific books?
Yes. Browse lesson plans for specific books with pre-built story maps, or use the generic template for any text.