Final answer:
To best understand the rising action of a story, questions should examine the development of the plot, character motivations, and the specifics of setting and timeline that propel the story towards the climax.
Step-by-step explanation:
To understand the rising action in a story, readers can focus on the sequence of events that lead up to the climax. The rising action often introduces the main conflict of the story, building tension and setting the stage for the eventual climax. When analyzing the rising action, one should consider questions that probe into why certain events unfolded the way they did, how various elements contribute to the development of the plot, and what motivates the characters to act in certain ways. For instance, asking why a rainstorm was needed to carry out a character's plan helps to understand the circumstances of the plot. Recognizing how characters act, such as behaving as model prisoners, provides insight into the roles they play within the rising action. Inquiring about the specifics, such as the time of day when a pivotal decision is made or where important information is garnered, gives depth to our comprehension of the chronological progression and the setting that influences the story's direction. Attention to these details paints a clearer picture of the rising action's function.