Turns Over Plot Twists: The Use of Butterfly-Effect Model for Causal-Driven Story Development Program for Grade 5

Abstract

This action research aimed to investigate the effectiveness of the Butterfly-Effect Model as a pedagogical framework for developing causal-driven story writing skills among Grade 5 students at Don Bosco Technical Institute of Makati. Employing a one-group pretest-posttest design within a mixed-methods approach, the study implemented a structured program over four weeks. Quantitative data from 71.42 (Fair) to 86.37 (Very Satisfactory), with a mean gain of 14.95 points. Analysis of writing components revealed the most significant improvement in Plot Sequence (mean gain of 17.70), followed by Structure & Organization, Cultural Relevance, and Figures of Speech. Qualitative data from student interviews identified initial challenges in applying the causal model but overall positive perceptions of its utility for planning and avoiding arbitrary plot twists. Based on the findings, a Performance Task Action Plan was developed to provide educators with a structured, culturally relevant framework for sustained instruction in narrative causality. The study concludes that the Butterfly-Effect Model is an effective tool for enhancing narrative coherence, plot development, and students' metacognitive awareness in story writing.