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. With character mapping, students will record this information, helping them follow along and catch the subtleties which make reading more enjoyable!
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Student Instructions
Create a character map for the major characters.
Facilitate teamwork by grouping students and assigning each group a character to map. Share their findings with the class so everyone benefits from different perspectives. Rotate roles like illustrator, note-taker, and presenter to keep all students engaged and responsible for their character's traits and evidence.
Show students how to highlight or underline descriptive words and phrases in the story. Explain how these clues reveal important character traits. Connect each trait to specific sentences or actions in the book to help students practice citing evidence.
Encourage students to choose character images, colors, and backgrounds that match the character’s personality. Discuss why their choices make sense and how visuals can communicate details not found in the text alone. Support creativity while reinforcing comprehension.
Set aside class time for students to share their completed character maps. Ask reflective questions about each character’s traits and motivations. Encourage students to compare and contrast characters, deepening their understanding of the story’s dynamics.
A character map is a visual tool that helps students track and organize information about characters in a story, including their physical traits, personality, and key details. This enhances comprehension and engagement while reading.
To create a character map for Henry and Mudge, identify the main characters, add their names, choose images or drawings to represent them, and fill in sections for physical appearance, character traits, and supporting evidence from the text.
Character mapping helps 2nd and 3rd graders remember details, understand character motivations, and make reading more enjoyable by promoting active engagement with the story.
Examples of character traits for Mudge include being loving, protective, friendly, and curious, as shown by his actions and descriptions in the book.
Evidence supporting Mudge’s traits includes quotes like “Mudge had floppy ears, not pointed” and “Then he loved to smell him,” which show his appearance and affectionate personality.