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!
Copying the assignment to your account will provide you with both the example above as well as a blank template to customize as desired. You may want them to look at additional information about each character!
(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.
Use character maps as a springboard for group discussions about the novel. Assign students to small groups and have them share their character maps, comparing observations and details. This encourages collaboration and helps students notice character traits or relationships they might have missed on their own.
Have each student or pair take on the perspective of a specific character from their map during group discussions. This deepens engagement and prompts students to think critically about character motivations and actions.
Encourage students to reference details from their character maps to support their ideas during discussions. This builds textual analysis skills and helps students ground their observations in the novel's details.
Ask students to use different colors on their maps to show how a character evolves throughout the story. For example, one color for traits at the beginning and another for changes by the end. This visual strategy helps students notice growth and turning points.
Finish with a whole-class discussion where groups share how their mapped characters interact and change. This reflection reinforces understanding of character relationships and the novel's themes.
A character map for Esperanza Rising is a graphic organizer that helps students visually track important characters, their traits, and relationships throughout the novel, making it easier to remember key details and understand the story.
To create a character map, list the main characters in the novel, choose representative images or icons for each, and fill in details like age, physical appearance, personality traits, and their relationship with Esperanza. Templates or storyboard tools can make this process easier for students.
Major characters to include are Esperanza, Mama, Papa, Abuelita, Hortensia, Alfonso, Miguel, Isabel, and Marta. Adding minor characters can provide deeper understanding as needed.
Character mapping helps students recall key character details, track development, and understand relationships and plot nuances, improving comprehension and engagement with Esperanza Rising.
For each character, students should record age and physical appearance, personality traits, and relationship with Esperanza. This helps them analyze character roles and growth throughout the novel.