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.
Encourage students to share their character maps in small groups or pairs. Discussing the choices behind each detail helps students deepen their understanding of the characters, recognize different perspectives, and build speaking skills.
Demonstrate filling out a character map for one character using a think-aloud strategy. This shows students how to select details and categorize them, making expectations clear and lowering anxiety.
Have students work in pairs or small groups to complete their maps. Collaboration encourages discussion, helps students catch details they might miss alone, and fosters teamwork.
Prompt students to add illustrations or symbols that represent each character. Visuals engage different learning styles and make character traits more memorable.
Invite students to relate a character's traits or decisions to their own lives. Personal connections make reading more meaningful and help students empathize with the story.
A character map for Catherine, Called Birdy is a graphic organizer that helps students track and analyze key details about the novel’s main characters, such as their traits, relationships, and roles in the story.
Students can create a character map by listing major characters’ names, selecting images or icons to represent them, and filling in details like physical traits, personality, relationships, and Catherine’s attitude toward them.
Character mapping helps students remember character details, follow plot developments, and better understand subtle changes in relationships throughout the novel.
Important characters to include are Catherine (Birdy), her mother, father, Morwenna, Perkin, Aelis, Uncle George, Meg, and Shaggy Beard.
Include categories like Physical and Character Traits, How this character interacts with Catherine, and Catherine's attitude toward this character for each major character.