Comparing characters is a great way for students to understand how different people are, and how different characters affect a story. Using a Venn diagram, students can identify similarities and differences between the main characters in the book. Students will add images and words to represent the characters, their experiences, personalities, and interests. Using the outer portions of the ovals, they can identify traits, experiences, and attributes that are singular to the character and in the overlapping portions, they can list the ways in which the characters are the same.
To scaffold or tailor this activity, teachers can provide students with characters to compare or have them select their own. They may also include key words to guide students in identifying different traits, experiences, etc. They may also choose to use a different template, such as a T Chart with three cells. Be sure to update student instructions accordingly!
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a Venn Diagram comparing the characters from the book.
Student Instructions:
Requirements:
Begin the lecture by walking students through the meaning of the activity, the steps of the activity, and the objectives of the activity. Teachers can begin a general discussion of the story, its characters, and why it is important to read the story in detail in class and slowly build towards how comparing different characters can help students understand them in a better way.
For younger students, the framework and basis of comparison should be kept simple. For instance, students can focus more on the physical differences among the characters (if described), or simple character traits that students are familiar with. With the help of this activity, teachers can introduce some new vocabulary words to students and enhance their overall vocabulary.
Once the students are more familiar with the framework of comparison, ask the students to re-read the story in detail and look for the elements of the framework. For instance, if a student wants to compare the characters based on their physical traits, they should look for the description of characters such as big eyes, small structure, tall build, etc.
Make connections between character traits and real-world events. Encourage and ask questions such as, "How are apples and oranges similar? In what ways do they differ?" Then connect this to the characters. Besides objects, teachers can also ask the students to describe how they are similar and different from each other. Ensure that the students are respectful towards each other while carrying out this discussion.
Avoid using difficult phrases and use vocabulary that is easier for students to comprehend and retain at their level. Summarize similarities with a brief sentence, such as "Character A is brave, and Character B is funny."
Character connections add to the overall dynamics of the narrative and shed light on specific character features. Understanding each character better comes from analyzing these relationships. It also adds a new layer or element of analysis to the comparison activity.
The way a character looks, behaves, is motivated, interacts with other characters, and contributes to the themes of the story are all important aspects. Such can build a comparison framework using these elements and even add some of their own elements.
Characters are frequently used as vehicles for themes. Students can examine the ways in which individual characters contribute to the story's overall lessons and messages by contrasting and comparing them.