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!
Clicking "Use This Assignment" will copy both the example above as well as a blank template for you to customize as desired. You may want students to start from scratch, or provide them with the questions and characters! Printing it as worksheets, for your students to complete while reading, is a fast and easy way to incorporate this character map into your classroom.
| Guy Montag | The main protagonist, a third generation fireman who is searching for himself. When he breaks the law by keeping a book, he begins to question the values of his society. |
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| Mildred Montag | Guy's wife. She previously tried to commit suicide and is obsessed with 'reality TV' and the media. Instead of engaging in meaningful conversations with her husband, she shuts him out. |
| Captain Beaty | Beaty is Guy's fire chief. He memorized many verses of literature and at one time, would have been considered well-read. However, he now looks down on those who read and is often harsh and judgmental of others' thoughts and ideas. When Montag steals a book, Beaty somehow knows. |
| Clarisse McClellan | Represents the beauty of the world. She is a 17-year-old girl who enjoys nature, and is seen as odd for that. Clarisse who opens Montag's eyes to the world around him, seeing her happiness from the simple pleasures of life makes him question his existence. |
| Professor Faber | A retired English professor who regrets not standing up to society years ago when books were beginning to be burned. Montag meets Faber a year before the book opens. Faber also helps spark Montag's curiosity. |
| Granger | Granger is an outcast of the current society. He leads a group of people who fight to protect books although society has condemned them. Granger's inner strength and a quiet dominance appeals to Montag. |
| Mrs. Phelps and Mrs. Bowles | Two friends of Mildred who are the epitome of what society has become. Both have a lean and dark look, with little to no personality. Through them, the reader can see how terrible society has become. |
| Stoneman and Black | Firemen who work with Montag. They are cold and vapid, doing their job without emotion or thought. |
(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.
Encourage collaboration by assigning small groups to focus on different characters. Each group researches, discusses, and documents their character's traits, actions, and changes throughout the novel, then presents their findings to the class. This boosts engagement and helps all students build a deeper understanding.
Divide tasks such as illustrator, note-taker, and presenter so every student contributes. Clarifying roles ensures all voices are heard and keeps the project moving smoothly.
Direct students to find specific quotes or scenes that reveal their character's personality or growth. Using text evidence strengthens analysis and supports classroom discussion.
Have each group present their character map and explain their choices. Encourage classmates to ask questions or add observations to build peer learning and reinforce comprehension.
Showcase the finished maps on a bulletin board or digital platform. This visual reference supports ongoing learning and gives students a sense of pride in their collaborative work.
A character map for Fahrenheit 451 is a visual tool that helps students track and analyze the major characters in the novel. It allows readers to record details like traits, relationships, and changes, making it easier to understand the story and remember key character information.
You can use a character map by having students fill out traits, knowledge, and changes for each character as they read. This supports deeper comprehension and discussion. Print worksheets or use digital templates to integrate character mapping into your Fahrenheit 451 lessons easily.
Include Guy Montag, Mildred Montag, Captain Beatty, Clarisse McClellan, Professor Faber, Granger, Mrs. Phelps, Mrs. Bowles, Stoneman, and Black on your character map. These characters play important roles in the story and help illustrate its themes.
Students should note character traits, whether they are static or dynamic (do they change?), and their level of knowledge or ignorance. Adding relationships, key actions, and important quotes enhances understanding.
Yes! Use the "Use This Assignment" feature to copy ready-made examples and blank templates. You can customize questions and characters, or print worksheets for students to complete while reading. This saves prep time and supports differentiated instruction.