1. Palmer's Resistance: Palmer shows initial resistance to participating in the Wringer, going against the established social pressure from the seventh graders. He questions the logic and morality of the tradition, which involves subjecting new seventh graders to a series of humiliating tasks.
2. Pressure from Seventh Graders: The seventh graders, led by a mischievous and tough character named Beans, increase the pressure on Palmer to join the Wringer. They begin to taunt and harass him, making it clear that they will not accept refusal.
3. Palmer's Moral Dilemma: Palmer faces an internal struggle as he weighs his personal values against the fear of social exclusion and the potential consequences of standing up against the seventh graders. He must decide whether to prioritize his beliefs or give in to the group's demands.
4. Growing Tensions: The tension escalates as Beans and his cohorts devise more elaborate and intimidating initiation tasks for Palmer. These include forced haircuts, embarrassing dress-up sessions, and even a potentially dangerous challenge involving running through a gauntlet of flying objects.
5. Palmer's Determination: Despite the growing pressure and fear, Palmer remains firm in his decision not to participate in the Wringer. He begins to develop a sense of defiance and courage, determined to challenge the unjust and harmful traditions perpetuated by the older students.
6. Formation of Alliances: Palmer finds unexpected support from some of his classmates, who are also opposed to the Wringer but have been too afraid to speak out. Together, they start forming alliances and planning a way to resist the seventh graders' coercion.
The rising action in "Wringer" culminates in an explosive confrontation between Palmer and Beans, leading to a dramatic turning point in the story and setting the stage for the novel's climax and resolution.