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.
Integrate character mapping regularly by setting aside a few minutes each reading session for students to update their maps. This ongoing process helps reinforce comprehension and ensures students stay engaged with character development throughout the novel.
Demonstrate by thinking aloud as you pinpoint a character’s physical traits, motivations, and relationships. Show students how to look for evidence in the text to support their choices, making the process transparent and accessible.
Invite students to assign specific colors to represent traits such as bravery, loyalty, or conflict. This visual strategy helps students quickly grasp character growth and compare personalities throughout the story.
Ask students to share their character maps in pairs or small groups. Prompt them to explain their choices and discuss differences in interpretation, fostering critical thinking and respectful conversation.
Guide students to update their maps when characters evolve due to major plot events. Highlight how actions or challenges influence traits and relationships, deepening their understanding of narrative structure.
A character map for Julie of the Wolves is a visual organizer that helps students track key information about each character in the novel. It includes details like physical description, important actions, and relationships, making it easier to understand character development.
To create a character map, have students list each major character, select images or symbols to represent them, and fill in sections for physical description, important actions, and Miyax’s attitude towards them. Encourage creativity with backgrounds and colors relevant to the story.
Major characters to include are Miyax (Julie), Kapugen, Martha, Daniel, Amy, Amaroq, Kapu, Jello, and Tornait. Focusing on these helps capture key relationships and story events.
Character mapping helps students keep track of important details and relationships as the story unfolds. This strategy supports comprehension, makes subtle story elements easier to notice, and improves engagement with the text.
Use color coding for different character traits, add backgrounds or scenes that fit each character, and encourage students to use symbols or drawings. Including Miyax’s perspective on each character adds deeper understanding.