In this activity, students should depict the characters of the story, paying close attention to the physical and character traits of both major and minor characters. Students should provide detailed information regarding the character’s actions and how they influence other characters. In addition, students can identify how the main character changed over time.
Characters included in the character map are:
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Student Instructions
Create a character map for the major characters.
Encourage students to write a short diary entry from the perspective of one of the characters. This helps students deepen their understanding of character traits and motivations by stepping into the character’s shoes.
Demonstrate how to brainstorm thoughts, feelings, and events for a selected character. Use think-alouds so students can see your process for connecting story events to character perspectives.
Distribute character assignments so each student explores a unique viewpoint. This ensures a variety of perspectives and encourages class discussion later.
Remind students to look at their completed character maps when writing their diary entries. This helps them include accurate details about traits, changes, and challenges.
Invite students to share their entries with the class or in small groups. This builds confidence and sparks discussion about different characters’ choices and growth.
A character map for Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is a visual organizer that helps students identify and describe the main and minor characters, their traits, actions, and how they change throughout the story. It aids in understanding character development and relationships.
To teach character traits with Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, have students list physical and personality traits for each character, provide examples from the story, and discuss how these traits influence their actions. Using a character map makes this process interactive and clear.
The main characters include Charlie Bucket, Grandpa Joe, Willy Wonka, Augustus Gloop, Veruca Salt, Violet Beauregarde, Mike Teavee, and the Oompa-Loompas. Each plays a significant role in the story’s plot and themes.
Charlie Bucket changes from a humble, hopeful boy living in poverty to a confident and grateful winner of Willy Wonka’s factory. His kindness and honesty help him overcome challenges and earn rewards.
Easy lesson ideas include creating character maps, acting out scenes, comparing characters’ decisions, and having students write journal entries from a character’s perspective. These activities encourage deeper understanding and engagement.