For a three-act plot analysis, put on your screenwriter’s hat. Moviemakers know the formula well: at the end of Act One, the main character is drawn in completely to a conflict. During Act Two, she is farthest away from her goals. At the end of Act Three, the story is resolved.
Act I
Pecola's family begins to fall apart. Her father tries to burn down her house and her parents are constantly arguing. This, coupled with the constant bullying and teasing she gets at school, leads Pecola to start wishing she had blue eyes. Pecola believes that if she possessed blue eyes, her life would improve dramatically.
Act II
Pecola is raped by her father while washing the dishes in the kitchen. He rapes her again when she is lying on the couch. She tries to tell her mother, but Pauline doesn't believe her.
Act III
Pecola invents an imaginary friend to talk to her and affirm her. In a delusional state, Pecola believes her eyes have turned blue. She spends her days walking through town, picking through trash, and staring at her eyes in the mirror.