As students read, a storyboard can serve as a helpful character reference log. This log, also known as a character map, allows students to recall relevant information about important characters. With character mapping, students will record this information, helping them follow along and catch the subtleties which make reading more enjoyable!
Here is an example for Cowgirl Kate:
(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.
Invite students to share their character maps in small groups, encouraging them to discuss similarities and differences in their observations. This helps students build deeper comprehension by hearing multiple perspectives and strengthens speaking and listening skills.
Show students how to find and reference specific quotes or actions from the book that support their ideas about each character. Explicit modeling clarifies expectations and makes it easier for students to connect evidence to traits.
Ask students to use their completed character maps to predict how each character might act in a new situation. This encourages them to apply their understanding and think critically about character motivation.
Encourage students to relate traits from Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa to people they know or themselves. Making personal connections increases engagement and helps students internalize character qualities.
A character map is a visual organizer that helps students track important details about each character, such as their physical traits, personality, and supporting evidence from the story. Using a character map with Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa supports comprehension by making it easier to recognize character development and recall key information as students read.
To create a character map, have students identify major characters in Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa, select images or drawings to represent each one, and fill in sections for physical traits, character traits, and text evidence. Tools like Storyboard That can simplify this process and make it engaging for grades 2–3.
Cowgirl Kate is shown to be friendly, responsible, caring, and a true cowgirl. Examples from the text include her willingness to help Cocoa and her signature red boots, emphasizing her dedication and kindness.
Using evidence from the text in character mapping helps students practice citing specific details, deepens their understanding of characters, and supports critical thinking by connecting actions or dialogue to character traits.
Engage students by having them act out scenes, use visual organizers like character maps, or discuss examples from Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa. Interactive activities help students connect traits with character actions in memorable ways.