Activity Overview
Character maps are a helpful tool for students to use as they're reading, although they can also be used after completing a book. In this activity, students will create a character map of the characters in the story, paying close attention to the physical attributes and the traits of both major and minor characters. They can also provide detailed information regarding the challenges the character faces, the challenges the character imposes, and the importance of the character to the plot of the story.
To scaffold or tailor this activity, teachers can change the questions, add more questions (the character map layout can be found under "Scenes" -> "Patterns"), provide the names of characters they want students to track, or let students start from scratch! Teachers may also provide the visuals for each character or let students pick their own from the Characters tab. Be sure to update the student instructions as necessary!
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a character map for the characters in the novel.
Student Instructions:
- Identify the main and supporting characters in the novel and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a Storyboard That character to represent each of the book characters.
- Select colors and a pose appropriate to the story and the character's traits.
- Choose a scene or background that makes sense for the character.
- Fill in Textables for "Physical/Character Traits", "How does this character interact with the other characters?", and "What challenges does this character face?"
Lesson Plan Reference
- [ELA-Literacy/W/6/6] Use technology, including the Internet, to produce and publish writing as well as to interact and collaborate with others; demonstrate sufficient command of keyboarding skills to type a minimum of three pages in a single sitting.
- [ELA-Literacy/RL/4/3] Describe in depth a character, setting, or event in a story or drama, drawing on specific details in the text (e.g., a character's thoughts, words, or actions).
- [ELA-Literacy/RL/5/3] Compare and contrast two or more characters, settings, or events in a story or drama, drawing on specific details in the text (e.g., how characters interact).
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| 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 To Help Students Compare Multiple Characters in a Story
Select a Story
Teachers can select a story or a novel for students according to their understanding and intellectual level. Selecting a particular story is also dependent on the objectives that teachers are trying to teach. For instance, for younger students teachers can select stories with relatively easier vocabulary and good moral lessons. Once the story has been selected according to the understanding level of students, teachers can help them read and discuss the plot for further discussion.
Choose Characters
Once the students are more familiar with the contents of the narrative, ask them to choose 2-3 characters present in the story for comparison. Explain the scope of the comparison to students and help them decide on what basis they want to compare the characters. Students can also develop a particular framework for comparison so the insights from all students are consistent.
Use Graphic Organizers
Students can use graphic organizers in order to make the comparison easier especially if some students are comparing more than two characters. Ask the students to use Venn diagrams or creative visuals in order to make their comparison more comprehensive and organized.
Create Posters on Chart Papers
Another creative way to compare multiple characters is to make character posters for each character selected for comparison on the same chart paper. This can include drawing the characters based on their physical description, mentioning their personality traits and motivation, and mentioning some other qualities of the characters.
Reflect and Conclude
Once the students are done with the comparison, ask them to share their insights and perspectives that they gained throughout this process. This can include any new information they found out about the characters and if their perception of the characters changed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Character Maps and Character Analysis in a Novel Study
How can students use a character map to study and analyze characters present in a novel?
Students can more effectively organize and evaluate information about each character by using a character map, which improves character analysis. It aids in their ability to follow character development, recognize patterns in behavior or relationships, and understand the links between characters. Students' comprehension of the story is deepened by the visual element, which simplifies complex character interactions and features.
How can students incorporate technology in creating these maps?
There are a variety of digital tools and applications available for making character maps such as Storyboard That. Students can also use other tools such as graphic design software and online mind mapping tools to enhance and support their maps. These resources are great for group activities since they frequently facilitate collaboration.
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