This activity allows for a more in depth look at one or more characters with a focus on character traits. Students should provide textual evidence to support the character trait they choose. Students can support their ideas with dialogue, thoughts, or actions of the character they are portraying.
Here is an example of a character trait storyboard using the grid layout. This example features a comparison of character traits between Cinderella and her sisters, but students could focus on any of the characters in Cinderella.
Possible character traits for characters in Cinderella:
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a storyboard comparing the character traits of characters in Cinderella.
Student Instructions
Identify and illustrate a character traits for a specific character in Frindle.
Gather your class in a circle and have each student share a character trait for a chosen character, explaining their reasoning with specific examples from the text. This activity encourages active listening and helps students justify their ideas with evidence.
Demonstrate how to find dialogue, actions, or thoughts that reveal a character's traits by reading aloud a short passage and highlighting key phrases. Show students how to connect these details to specific traits for stronger analysis.
Invite students to work in pairs or small groups to create a list of possible character traits for a chosen character. Encourage them to use descriptive adjectives and share their lists with the class for a wider range of ideas.
Pair up students to swap their character trait storyboards. Each student reviews their partner’s work and provides one positive comment and one suggestion for even stronger evidence, fostering collaboration and critical thinking.
Create a large anchor chart listing all character traits discussed, along with student-provided examples. Display it in your classroom as a quick reference for future character studies and reading comprehension activities.
Cinderella is typically portrayed as kind, selfless, and genuine, while her sisters are often described as cruel, selfish, and rude. These traits can be supported by the characters’ actions, dialogue, and thoughts throughout the story.
Students should find specific examples from the story—such as a character’s dialogue, actions, or thoughts—to show how a character displays a trait. For example, citing an act of kindness by Cinderella supports her being kind.
A character trait storyboard is a visual activity where students compare and illustrate the traits of characters from Cinderella, using a grid layout. It helps students organize evidence and better understand each character’s personality.
To create this activity, provide students with a template to list characters, identify their traits, and describe or illustrate examples from the story. Encourage them to use evidence like actions or dialogue to support their choices.
Comparing traits helps students understand character motivations and the story’s message. It builds reading comprehension and critical thinking by encouraging them to look for evidence and draw conclusions about the characters.