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https://www.storyboardthat.com/lesson-plans/moon-over-manifest-by-clare-vanderpool/characters
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!
Moon Over Manifest Characters
- Abilene Tucker
- Shady
- Miss Sadie
- Lettie and Ruthanne
- Sister Redempta
- Gideon Tucker/Jinx
- Ned Gillen
- Arthur Devlin
- Uncle Finn
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 Moon Over Manifest and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a 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.
- Fill in the text boxes for Years of Living in Manifest or Years of Story (1917, 1936, or both), Character Traits or Role in Manifest, What Challenges Does This Character Face or Role in Gideon's Life, and How Does Living in Manifest Change This Character or Connection to Abilene's Time in Manifest.
Lesson Plan Reference
Student Rubric
Student Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
Character Map Rubric for Middle School
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 all appropriate for the book's characters. They reflect strong understanding of the book's most important characters. | Most of the characters and scenes are appropriate for the book's characters. They reflect emerging understanding of the book's most important characters. | Many of the characters and scenes do not match the characters in the book. The project reflects a lack of understanding of the major characters. |
| 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. | Much of the information of the notes is incomplete and/or incorrect and irrelevant. |
| Effort and Editing | Work is complete, thorough, and neat. Spelling and grammar are correct. | Most of the sections of the character map were at least attempted and work is presentable. The text contains some errors in spelling and/or grammar. | Character map is unfinished and/or disorganized. The text contains many errors in spelling and/or grammar. |
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!
Moon Over Manifest Characters
- Abilene Tucker
- Shady
- Miss Sadie
- Lettie and Ruthanne
- Sister Redempta
- Gideon Tucker/Jinx
- Ned Gillen
- Arthur Devlin
- Uncle Finn
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 Moon Over Manifest and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a 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.
- Fill in the text boxes for Years of Living in Manifest or Years of Story (1917, 1936, or both), Character Traits or Role in Manifest, What Challenges Does This Character Face or Role in Gideon's Life, and How Does Living in Manifest Change This Character or Connection to Abilene's Time in Manifest.
Lesson Plan Reference
Student Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
Character Map Rubric for Middle School
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 all appropriate for the book's characters. They reflect strong understanding of the book's most important characters. | Most of the characters and scenes are appropriate for the book's characters. They reflect emerging understanding of the book's most important characters. | Many of the characters and scenes do not match the characters in the book. The project reflects a lack of understanding of the major characters. |
| 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. | Much of the information of the notes is incomplete and/or incorrect and irrelevant. |
| Effort and Editing | Work is complete, thorough, and neat. Spelling and grammar are correct. | Most of the sections of the character map were at least attempted and work is presentable. The text contains some errors in spelling and/or grammar. | Character map is unfinished and/or disorganized. The text contains many errors in spelling and/or grammar. |
How Tos about Character Map for Moon Over Manifest
1
How to Facilitate Meaningful Class Discussions Using Character Maps
Encourage students to share insights from their character maps in small groups or as a class. Meaningful discussions help students deepen their understanding and build connections between characters and the story’s themes.
2
Set clear goals for your discussion
Define what you want students to achieve, such as analyzing relationships or exploring character growth. Clear objectives keep conversations focused and productive.
3
Assign roles to students
Give each student or group a character to present using their map. Assigned roles ensure everyone contributes and feels engaged in the discussion.
4
Prompt students with open-ended questions
Ask questions like, “How did this character change?” or “What motivated their actions?” Open-ended questions spark deeper thinking and lively conversation.
5
Make connections between characters and themes
Guide students to relate character choices to broader story themes. Connecting character actions to larger ideas strengthens comprehension and critical thinking.
Frequently Asked Questions about Character Map for Moon Over Manifest
What is a character map for Moon Over Manifest?
A character map for Moon Over Manifest is a visual tool that helps students organize and track important details about each character in the novel. It typically includes names, traits, roles, relationships, and how characters change over time, making it easier to understand the story's development.
How do I create a character map for Moon Over Manifest?
To create a character map, list the main characters in title boxes, select an image or symbol for each, and fill in details like years present, character traits, challenges faced, and connections to the story. Using scenes or backgrounds relevant to each character can make the map more engaging for students.
Why should students use a character map when reading Moon Over Manifest?
Using a character map helps students remember key details, track character development, and understand complex relationships in the story. It also supports comprehension and engagement by allowing students to notice subtle changes and connections as the plot unfolds.
Which characters should be included in a Moon Over Manifest character map?
Major characters to include are Abilene Tucker, Shady, Miss Sadie, Lettie, Ruthanne, Sister Redempta, Gideon Tucker (Jinx), Ned Gillen, Arthur Devlin, and Uncle Finn. Focusing on these characters ensures students capture the most important relationships and character arcs.
What are some best practices for teaching character mapping to middle school students?
Effective strategies include modeling how to fill out a character map, encouraging students to use visuals and text, discussing character changes throughout the novel, and allowing group or individual work for deeper engagement. Using templates and guiding questions can scaffold the process for all learners.
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© 2026 - Clever Prototypes, LLC - All rights reserved.
StoryboardThat is a trademark of Clever Prototypes, LLC, and Registered in U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
