As students read, a storyboard can serve as a helpful character reference log. This log (also called a character map) allows students to recall relevant information about important characters. When reading a novel, small attributes and details frequently become important as the plot progresses. With character mapping, students will record this information, helping them follow along and catch the subtleties which make reading more enjoyable!
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Student Instructions
Create a character map for the major characters in Thirteen Reasons Why.
Encourage students to share their perspectives on why characters make certain choices. Use open-ended questions to spark deeper thinking and guide the discussion back to the text for evidence. This helps students build analysis skills and connect personally to the story.
Show students how to find and cite passages that reveal a character’s motivation. Think aloud as you connect character actions to specific events or dialogue in the book. This makes the process transparent and easy to follow.
Prompt students to generate questions such as “Why did this character act this way?” or “What might they be feeling here?” Encouraging curiosity helps students read more actively and understand complex character dynamics.
Divide the class into small groups and assign each group a character to discuss. Provide guiding questions and have groups share their insights with the class. This promotes collaboration and deeper understanding.
Ask students to write a short reflection on how their understanding of a character changed after discussion. Personal reflection cements learning and encourages students to consider multiple viewpoints.
A character map for Thirteen Reasons Why is a graphic organizer that helps students track important details, traits, and developments of each major character throughout the novel.
To create a character map, list the major characters, choose visual representations, and fill in sections for traits, their role in Hannah's list, and how they change during the story.
Character mapping helps students recall key details, understand character motivations, and notice plot subtleties, making it easier to engage with complex novels like Thirteen Reasons Why.
Main characters to include are Hannah Baker, Clay Jensen, Justin Foley, Alex Standall, Jessica Davis, and others central to the story’s events.
Each section should cover character traits, reasons they're on Hannah's list, and how they change over the course of the book.