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. With character mapping, students will record this information, helping them follow along and catch the subtleties which make reading more enjoyable!
You can click on this map and create a copy on your teacher account. Feel free to use it as is, or to edit it for the level of your class. Printing it as worksheets, for your students to complete while reading, is a fast and easy way to incorporate this character map into your classroom.
Here is an example for Elmer Elevator:
(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 of My Father's Dragon.
Initiate a lively classroom discussion about each character's traits and choices. Ask guiding questions and encourage students to share their observations, helping everyone gain deeper insights into the story and its characters.
Divide students into small groups, giving each group a specific character to map. Let students collaborate on finding evidence and describing traits, building teamwork and ownership of their learning.
Encourage students to add drawings or choose images that reflect each character's appearance and personality. Artistic elements make character maps more memorable and engaging for visual learners.
Have students write one new fact or insight about a character on an exit ticket after each reading session. Collect and review to monitor understanding and spark future discussions.
Set aside time for students to update their maps when new character information is revealed. Revisiting their work helps students recognize character development and strengthens comprehension.
A character map for My Father’s Dragon is a visual organizer that helps students track key information about each character, including their physical appearance, traits, and supporting evidence from the story.
To use a character map worksheet, print copies for students to fill in as they read. Encourage them to note details about characters’ looks, personalities, and actions, supporting their notes with quotes or examples from My Father’s Dragon.
Character mapping helps young readers improve comprehension by organizing character details, identifying traits, and making connections, which makes it easier to understand and enjoy the story.
Yes, you can edit or customize the character map to fit your students’ grade level or specific needs. Adjust the prompts, colors, or examples to make the worksheet more engaging and relevant.
Encourage students to look for actions, dialogue, and descriptions that reveal character traits. Ask guiding questions like, “What does this character do?” or “How do others react to them?” to help them find textual evidence.