Describing Characters in Red Kayak

In this activity, students create an outline for the characters in the story, paying close attention to the feelings and actions of both major and minor characters. Students can also provide detailed information regarding the character’s actions, how they influence other characters, and how the main character changed over time.

You can click on this map and create a copy on your teacher account. 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 Brady Parks:

• Traits: Courageous and determined
• How does this character change over time? Brady realizes the impact he made in saving Ben's life.
• What challenges does this character face? Brady is faced with the challenge of finding Ben. Brady deals with cold, rainy weather. Brady drops his phone in the water.

Student Instructions

Create a character map for the major characters.

1. Identify the major characters in Red Kayak and type their names into the different title boxes.
2. Choose a character to represent each of the literary characters.
• Select colors and a pose appropriate to story and character traits.
3. Choose a scene or background that makes sense for the character.
4. Fill in the text boxes for Physical/Character Traits, How Does This Character Change Over Time, and What Challenges Does This Character Face.