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:
(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.
Adding direct quotes and imagined conversations helps students analyze character motives and emotions in context. Encourage students to select or write brief dialogues showing how characters respond to challenges or interact with others, supporting deeper comprehension.
Guide students to find lines that reveal feelings, personality, or relationships. Use think-alouds to show why a quote matters, focusing on how it shows a character’s growth or perspective in the story.
Ask students to write or paste short dialogue excerpts near the character’s name or traits. This visual connection makes character motivations and emotions clearer and more memorable.
Invite students to share their chosen dialogue in pairs or small groups. Discussing choices helps students see how different lines highlight unique traits or turning points for each character.
A character map for Red Kayak is a graphic organizer that helps students outline and analyze the traits, actions, challenges, and development of the story's main and minor characters as they read.
You can print the character map worksheet for students to fill out as they read, encouraging them to track each character’s traits, challenges, and growth. It's an easy way to boost comprehension and engagement in your classroom.
Examples of Brady Parks's character traits include being courageous and determined. He faces tough challenges like rescuing Ben and coping with difficult weather.
Tracking character changes helps students understand character development, motivations, and the impact of events on the main character, deepening comprehension and critical thinking skills.
The best way to adapt the character map is to simplify prompts for younger students or add more detailed analysis questions for older students. Editing the template to match your class's needs makes it flexible for various grade levels.