Character maps are a great way for students to keep track of character traits, relationships, motivations, and more throughout a story. In this activity, students will create a character map of the characters in Chains, paying close attention to the physical attributes and the traits of both major and minor characters. Students can also provide detailed information regarding the challenges the character faces, the challenges the character imposes, and the importance of the character to the plot of the story.
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Due Date:
Objective: Create a character map for each character in Chains. Address Physical/Character Traits, How does this character interact with the main character?, and What challenges does this character face?
Student Instructions:
Requirements: Physical/Character Traits, How does this character interact with the main character?, and What challenges does this character face?
Foster teamwork by dividing your class into small groups and assigning each group a different character from Chains. Each group creates a character map, then presents their findings to the class. This allows students to learn from each other and see how characters interconnect within the story.
Clarify expectations by modeling a sample character map together as a class. Show an example for one character, highlighting how to fill in each section, so students feel confident about what to include in their own maps.
Boost critical thinking by asking students to find and record specific quotes or page numbers that support their descriptions of character traits or challenges. This practice strengthens reading comprehension and text analysis skills.
Promote engagement by displaying all character maps around the classroom. Let students walk around, review each other's work, and add sticky notes with questions or positive feedback. This builds classroom community and sparks deeper discussion.
A character map for Chains is a visual organizer that helps students track the traits, relationships, motivations, and challenges of major and minor characters in Laurie Halse Anderson's novel. It supports comprehension and deeper analysis of the story.
To create a character map for Chains, identify key characters, summarize their physical and character traits, describe their interactions with the main character, and list the challenges they face. Use boxes or visual templates to organize this information clearly.
Your Chains character map should include: each character's name, physical and character traits, relationship with the main character, and challenges faced. Adding visuals or brief examples can make it more engaging.
Making a character map while reading Chains helps students better understand character development, relationships, and plot events. It aids recall during discussions and assignments, and supports critical thinking about the story.
Yes, there are user-friendly tools like Storyboard That and printable character map templates tailored for grades 6-8. These help students organize details about Chains' characters in a visually appealing and structured way.