In this activity, students create an outline for the characters in the story, paying close attention to the physical characteristics and the character traits of both major and minor characters. Students can also provide detailed information regarding the character’s actions, how they influence other characters, and how the main character changed over time.
Characters included in this character map are:
(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 students to share their ideas about each character aloud. Open discussion helps students deepen their understanding and see different perspectives. Guide the conversation by asking questions about characters’ motivations and growth throughout the story.
Demonstrate how to fill out one section of the character map as a class. Use think-aloud strategies to make your thought process visible. This builds student confidence and clarifies expectations.
Provide students with images and key quotes from the book. Visuals and direct text evidence help students make stronger connections to the characters’ traits and actions.
Divide students into small groups to work on different characters. Collaborative work allows for deeper analysis and lets students learn from peers’ insights. Rotate groups to review and add to each other’s maps.
Have students write or share how their understanding of the characters has changed. Reflection reinforces learning and highlights the importance of character development in stories.
A character map for Matilda is a visual tool that helps students outline the main and supporting characters in Roald Dahl’s book. It highlights their physical traits, personality characteristics, actions, and character development throughout the story.
To create a character map for Matilda, have students identify major characters, use a storyboard or template, select images or colors that represent each character, and fill out details on traits, actions, and how they influence Matilda or change over time.
Include Matilda, Mr. and Mrs. Wormwood, Michael Wormwood, Mrs. Phelps, Miss Honey, Miss Trunchbull, Lavender, Hortensia, and Bruce Bogtrotter in your Matilda character map for a complete overview.
Ask students questions like: What are this character’s main traits? How do they impact Matilda? How does this character change? What important actions do they take in the story?
Character maps help students better understand the relationships, motivations, and growth of each character in Matilda, promoting deeper comprehension and engagement with the text.