A SWBST graphic organizer is helpful for students to use as a way to identify and keep track of important parts of a book. Standing for "Somebody Wanted, But, So Then", the graphic organizer allows students to visually work their way through the consequences of a character's actions and decisions.
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a SWBST storyboard to analyze the consequences of a character's actions in Number the Stars. Remember, SWBST stands for "Somebody Wanted, But, So, Then".
Guide students through a class discussion using the SWBST organizer. This encourages participation and helps students think deeply about character choices and consequences.
Pick one main character from Number the Stars as a group. Involving everyone helps students connect with the story and each other.
Encourage students to brainstorm the character’s goal. This step builds comprehension and gets everyone thinking about motivation.
Have students discuss what obstacle the character faced. Highlighting conflict helps students understand story structure and character development.
Ask how the character tried to solve the problem. Focusing on actions encourages students to analyze decision-making and its impact.
Invite students to share how the character’s actions affected the ending. Group reflection promotes critical thinking and a deeper appreciation for the story.
The SWBST graphic organizer is a tool that helps students break down a story by identifying the main character (Somebody), their goal (Wanted), the conflict (But), the solution (So), and the outcome (Then). In 'Number the Stars', it helps students track key events and character decisions.
To use a SWBST organizer with 'Number the Stars', select a character, describe their goal, identify the conflict, explain their actions to resolve it, and state the outcome. This approach helps analyze character motivation and story structure.
The SWBST method is effective because it guides students to focus on key story elements, encourages critical thinking, and supports deeper understanding of characters’ actions and consequences in 'Number the Stars'.
Example SWBST for Annemarie: Somebody: Annemarie; Wanted: Her friends to be safe from the Nazis; But: The Nazis are checking who is Jewish; So: Her family helps sneak the Rosens out; Then: The Rosens reach safety in Sweden.
The SWBST activity for 'Number the Stars' is best for grades 6–8, helping middle school students analyze story structure and character actions.