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 and details about important characters. With character mapping, it’s easy for students to follow along and catch the subtleties which make reading more enjoyable!
Use a character map to help track the different characters that are discussed in 1984. Have the students provide the character’s physical traits, internal character traits, and a quote for support.
39 years old; varicose ulcer above his right ankle; works in the Ministry of Truth, changing historical records and newspapers to make Big Brother look truthful; not very healthy physically; wears blue overalls of the Outer Party
Initially introduced as sort of a dull man, he eventually shows another side when he comes home, hides himself from the telescreen, and writes in a journal: “Down with Big Brother.” He meets Julia, becomes enamored with her and with the idea of overthrowing Ingsoc.
“theyll shoot me i dont care theyll shoot me in the back of the neck i dont care down with big brother they always shoot you in the back of the neck i dont care down with big brother--”
Other characters included in this map are Julia, O’Brien, and Big Brother
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a character map for the major characters.
Use character maps as talking points during group discussions to encourage all students to contribute their observations. This helps students notice subtle traits and perspectives they might miss alone, building critical thinking and collaborative skills.
Give each student or small group a specific character to map and present their findings to the class. Sharing different character perspectives boosts engagement and ensures every student has a voice.
Encourage students to support their trait choices with direct quotes from the text. This practice strengthens close reading skills and reinforces the importance of citing evidence.
Ask students to revisit and revise their character maps after major plot events. This keeps analysis dynamic and helps students track character development over time.
Invite students to create visual or digital versions of their maps, such as posters or slideshows. This taps into multiple learning styles and makes character exploration more memorable.
A character map for 1984 is a visual organizer that helps students track physical traits, internal traits, and key quotes for major characters like Winston, Julia, O’Brien, and Big Brother. Teachers can use it as a reference during reading or as a lesson activity to deepen understanding and support literary analysis.
To create a character map for 1984, identify main characters, choose images or symbols to represent them, and fill in sections for physical traits, character traits, and memorable quotes. Students can use colors and scenes that match each character’s role in the novel for added engagement.
Include Winston Smith’s physical traits (like age and health), his internal traits (such as rebelliousness and curiosity), and a supporting quote. For example: ‘Down with Big Brother’ shows his defiant nature and inner conflict.
Character maps help high school students organize key details, understand character motivations, and track relationships in complex novels like 1984. This visual approach supports comprehension and critical thinking, making literary analysis more accessible.
Encourage students to use direct quotes, pick distinctive traits, and select meaningful visual elements for each character. Remind them to think about how each character’s actions reflect their traits and role in the story for a more insightful map.