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!
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Student Instructions
Create a character map for the major characters.
Encourage students to use their completed character maps as prompts for thoughtful discussion. Invite them to share observations about character growth, motivations, and relationships to deepen understanding of the novel.
Project several student character maps and highlight similarities and differences in how students interpret each character. This fosters critical thinking and validates diverse perspectives.
Pose questions like, “Why do you think Johnny made this decision?” to spark dialogue and debate. Encourage evidence-based responses referencing details from their maps.
Guide students to link character actions to the time period. Discuss how the Revolutionary era influences motivations and political affiliations shown in the maps.
Invite students to write a short reflection on which character they relate to most and why, using details from their maps. This deepens personal connections and reinforces understanding.
A character map for Johnny Tremain is a visual organizer that helps students track key details, traits, and changes in major characters. Using a character map makes it easier to understand relationships, motives, and character development throughout the novel.
To create a Johnny Tremain character map, have students list main characters, choose representative images, and fill in details like physical traits, character growth, and political affiliations. Encourage creativity with scenes and colors that match each character's personality.
Key characters to include are Johnny Tremain, Rab Silsbee, Cilla Lapham, Isannah Lapham, Mrs. Lapham, Lavinia Lyte, Mr. Lyte, Dove, and Lieutenant Stranger. Adding these helps students track the most important relationships and events in the story.
Character mapping benefits middle school readers by helping them remember details, follow character changes, and better understand the plot. It also supports close reading and engages students with visual learning strategies.
Students should note physical traits, how the character changes over time, and their political affiliations. Adding important scenes or quotes can deepen understanding and make the character map more meaningful.