In this activity, students will depict the characters in The Black Stallion by Walter Farley using a character map. Have students pay close attention to the physical and character traits of both major and minor characters. Students will provide detailed information regarding how the characters interact with the main characters, as well as challenges the characters face.
Characters included in the character map are:
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Student Instructions
Create a character map for the major characters.
Encourage students to analyze why each character acts the way they do by asking open-ended questions and prompting them to cite examples from the text. This fosters critical thinking and deeper understanding of character development.
Invite students to relate the experiences or feelings of a character to their own lives. This personalizes learning and helps students empathize with the story’s characters.
Provide Venn diagrams or T-charts so students can visually compare and contrast two characters’ traits. This strategy supports visual learners and clarifies similarities and differences.
Pair students and have them discuss their character maps or observations. Sharing ideas in pairs boosts confidence and allows for peer learning.
Ask students to write a diary entry or letter from a character’s perspective. This consolidates understanding and encourages imaginative thinking.
To create a character map for The Black Stallion, list the main characters, select images or symbols to represent them, and describe each character’s physical traits, personality, relationships with Alec, and challenges they face. Use colors and backgrounds that fit each character’s role in the story.
The major characters in The Black Stallion include Alexander “Alec” Ramsey, the Black, Henry Dailey, and other important figures like Pat, Napoleon, Tony, Mr. and Mrs. Ramsey, Jim Neville, and Joe Russo.
Students should include each character’s physical and personality traits, their interactions with Alec, and the challenges they encounter in the story. Visual elements like colors, poses, and backgrounds should reflect the character’s role and traits.
Mapping characters helps students understand relationships, motivations, and character development. It reinforces comprehension, encourages attention to detail, and supports visual learners by organizing information clearly.
Make character maps engaging by letting students choose colors, backgrounds, and character poses, work in pairs, and use creative symbols. Encourage them to connect characters’ challenges to story events for deeper understanding.