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!
You can click on this map and create a copy on your teacher account. Feel free to use it as is, or to edit it for the level of your class. 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.
Here is an example for the Camel:
(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.
Divide your class into small groups and assign each group a different character from the story. This fosters teamwork while allowing students to explore diverse perspectives on the characters.
Distribute ready-to-use character map worksheets or digital templates to each group. Having a structured format helps students focus on key details rather than layout or design.
Ask students to include direct quotes or specific examples from the text for each character trait or physical detail. This encourages close reading and supports comprehension.
Have each group present their character map to the class. This builds speaking confidence and allows students to learn from each other's insights.
Invite students to reflect on feedback from presentations and update their character maps as needed. This step deepens understanding and models constructive revision.
A character map is a visual tool that helps students track important details about characters, such as appearance, traits, and evidence from the text. Using one for 'How the Camel Got His Hump' supports comprehension by making it easier to follow character development and story events.
You can print character map worksheets for students to fill out as they read 'How the Camel Got His Hump.' This encourages active reading and helps students organize information about each character’s traits, actions, and changes throughout the story.
The camel is portrayed as lazy and unwilling to work, preferring to live alone in the desert. Over time, these traits lead to him receiving his hump, serving as a lesson about responsibility in the story.
Students should identify the major characters, choose representative images or drawings, and fill in sections for physical traits, character traits, and supporting evidence from the text. Selecting relevant backgrounds and colors can also make the map more engaging and meaningful.
Character mapping helps younger students in grades 2-3 organize story details visually, improving recall and making it easier to understand character motivations and plot changes as they read.