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https://www.storyboardthat.com/lesson-plans/mkt-testing-teacher-guide/character-map
Lesson Plan Overview
Template and Class Instructions
Student Rubric
Lesson Plan Overview
Lesson Plan Overview
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!
[Title of Book] Characters
- [main character]
- [main character]
- [character]
- [character]
- [character]
- [character]
- [character]
- [character]
- [character]
Template and Class Instructions
Template and Class Instructions
(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.
- Identify the major characters in [TITLE] and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a character from the "[APPROPRIATE]" tab to represent each of the literary characters.
- Select colors and a pose appropriate to story and character traits.
- Choose a scene or background that makes sense for the character.
- Fill in text for [TRAITS OR WHATEVER].
Student Instructions
Create a character map for the major characters.
- Identify the major characters in [TITLE] and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a Storyboard That character to represent each of the literary characters.
- Select colors and a pose appropriate to story and character traits.
- Choose a scene or background that makes sense for the character.
- Replace the bold words in the text boxes with the following categories for each character: [TRAITS OR WHATEVER] Write sentences or bullet points to provide details for each category.
Lesson Plan Reference
Student Rubric
Student Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
Character Map Template
Create a character map of the characters in the story. Put the character's name in the title boxes and choose a character and scene to represent each one. As you read, take notes on the characters by answering the questions.
| Proficient 33 Points | Emerging 25 Points | Beginning 17 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Character Picture & Scene | The characters and scenes are both appropriate for the book's characters. | Many of the characters and scenes match the book's characters. | More than half of the characters and scenes do not match the characters in the book. |
| Accuracy of Notes | Most of the information of the notes is correct. | Many of the notes have correct information, but some are incorrect or missing. | Less than half of the information of the notes is correct and relevant. |
| Effort | Work is complete, thorough, and neat. | Most of the sections of the character map were at least attempted and work is presentable. | Character map is unfinished and/or disorganized. |
Lesson Plan Overview
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!
[Title of Book] Characters
- [main character]
- [main character]
- [character]
- [character]
- [character]
- [character]
- [character]
- [character]
- [character]
Template and Class Instructions
(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.
- Identify the major characters in [TITLE] and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a character from the "[APPROPRIATE]" tab to represent each of the literary characters.
- Select colors and a pose appropriate to story and character traits.
- Choose a scene or background that makes sense for the character.
- Fill in text for [TRAITS OR WHATEVER].
Student Instructions
Create a character map for the major characters.
- Identify the major characters in [TITLE] and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a Storyboard That character to represent each of the literary characters.
- Select colors and a pose appropriate to story and character traits.
- Choose a scene or background that makes sense for the character.
- Replace the bold words in the text boxes with the following categories for each character: [TRAITS OR WHATEVER] Write sentences or bullet points to provide details for each category.
Lesson Plan Reference
Student Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
Character Map Template
Create a character map of the characters in the story. Put the character's name in the title boxes and choose a character and scene to represent each one. As you read, take notes on the characters by answering the questions.
| Proficient 33 Points | Emerging 25 Points | Beginning 17 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Character Picture & Scene | The characters and scenes are both appropriate for the book's characters. | Many of the characters and scenes match the book's characters. | More than half of the characters and scenes do not match the characters in the book. |
| Accuracy of Notes | Most of the information of the notes is correct. | Many of the notes have correct information, but some are incorrect or missing. | Less than half of the information of the notes is correct and relevant. |
| Effort | Work is complete, thorough, and neat. | Most of the sections of the character map were at least attempted and work is presentable. | Character map is unfinished and/or disorganized. |
How Tos about Character Map
1
Organize your classroom for a successful character mapping activity
Arrange desks or tables to allow students to easily collaborate or work independently, as needed. Clear workspaces help students focus on mapping characters and details.
2
Introduce the purpose and benefits of character maps
Explain how character maps help students track details and understand character development. Relating the activity to their reading goals increases engagement and understanding.
3
Model creating a character map using a familiar story
Demonstrate each step with a well-known book or class text. Show how to identify characters, select images, and fill in traits or details.
4
Guide students in brainstorming character traits together
Lead a class discussion to list possible character traits and relevant details. This supports students in thinking critically and provides vocabulary for their maps.
5
Support students as they create their own character maps
Circulate the classroom, offering feedback and answering questions. Encourage creativity and accuracy as students select images and fill in character information.
Frequently Asked Questions about Character Map
What is a character map in literature?
A character map is a visual tool that helps students track important details about characters in a story, including their traits, relationships, and significant actions. This makes it easier to understand and remember character development throughout a novel.
How do I create a character map for my class?
To create a character map, identify the main characters, type their names in designated areas, select images or icons to represent them, and fill in details like traits or key events. Encourage students to use colors, poses, and backgrounds that reflect each character's role and personality.
Why should students use character maps when reading novels?
Character maps help students organize information, recognize character development, and recall details as the plot progresses, making reading more engaging and aiding comprehension.
What information should be included in a character map?
A strong character map should include each character’s name, personality traits, physical attributes, relationships, and important actions or events they’re involved in.
Are there easy templates or tools for character mapping?
Yes, many educators use digital tools like Storyboard That or printable templates that let students visually organize character information with customizable boxes, images, and text fields.
Testimonials
“I'm doing a Napoleon timeline and I'm having [students] determine whether or not Napoleon was a good guy or a bad guy or somewhere in between.”–History and Special Ed Teacher
“Students get to be creative with Storyboard That and there's so many visuals for them to pick from... It makes it really accessible for all students in the class.”–Third Grade Teacher
https://www.storyboardthat.com/lesson-plans/mkt-testing-teacher-guide/character-map
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StoryboardThat is a trademark of Clever Prototypes, LLC, and Registered in U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
© 2026 - Clever Prototypes, LLC - All rights reserved.
StoryboardThat is a trademark of Clever Prototypes, LLC, and Registered in U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
