As students read, a storyboard can serve as a helpful character reference log. This log (also called a character map) allows students to recall relevant information about important characters. When reading a novel, small attributes and details frequently become important as the plot progresses. With character mapping, students will record this information, helping them follow along and catch the subtleties which make reading more enjoyable!
Physical Traits
16-17 years old, 5’8 ½” tall, 140 pounds, athletic, smart, sarcastic; has a “West Point stride”
Character Traits
Jealous and insecure; concerned with rules and regulations; feels guilty after knocking Finny out of the tree; lies about his background; afraid of the war
Quote
“But by now I no longer needed this vivid false identity; now I was acquiring, I felt, a sense of my own real authority and worth.”
Other characters included in this map are: Phineas “Finny”, Elwin “Leper” Lepellier, Brinker Hadley, Cliff Quackenbush, and Dr. Stanpole
(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.
Boost student engagement by organizing small group discussions where students share their character maps and insights. This interactive approach helps deepen understanding as students compare interpretations and discover new perspectives on each character.
Explain the discussion format and outline your goals for respectful listening and thoughtful responses. Clear guidelines help students feel comfortable sharing and ensure everyone participates meaningfully.
Designate roles such as discussion leader, note-taker, and timekeeper to keep conversations focused and fair. Structured roles prevent off-topic chatter and encourage all students to contribute.
Prompt students to reference character traits, quotes, or scenes from their maps when sharing opinions. This practice reinforces critical thinking and helps students support their ideas with text evidence.
Facilitate a brief discussion where each group shares highlights or surprising insights. Sharing as a class builds community and ensures that students learn from each other's interpretations.
A character map for A Separate Peace is a graphic organizer that helps students track important details about each character, such as physical traits, personality, and key quotes, making it easier to analyze the novel and understand character development.
To create a character map, list each main character’s name, choose an image or symbol to represent them, and fill in sections for physical traits, character traits, and a memorable quote. Add relevant backgrounds or colors to reflect each character’s personality and role in the story.
Character mapping helps students remember key details, recognize subtle character changes, and better understand relationships and themes in A Separate Peace. It encourages close reading and deeper engagement with the text.
Gene Forrester is described as athletic, smart, sarcastic, jealous, insecure, and concerned with rules. He struggles with guilt and identity, especially after his actions impact Finny, showcasing his complex inner conflicts.
Students should: 1) Identify major characters in A Separate Peace; 2) Assign each character to a section of the map; 3) Select images, colors, and backgrounds that fit; 4) Fill in details on physical traits, character traits, and a key quote for each character.