The Book Thief has several important characters who grow and change throughout the story. In this activity, students can create a character map of the characters in the story, paying close attention to the physical attributes and the traits of both major and minor characters. Students can also provide detailed information regarding the challenges the character faces, the challenges the character imposes, and the importance of the character to the plot of the story.
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a character map for the major characters in The Book Thief.
Student Instructions:
Encourage students to match traits with specific actions or decisions characters make in the story. This helps deepen understanding of how personality influences behavior and plot development.
Demonstrate how to find quotes or passages that reveal why a character acts a certain way. Share examples and guide students to use these details in their character maps.
Organize small groups for students to discuss how characters change over the course of the story. Prompt them with questions like, “How has this character grown?”
Instruct students to identify similarities and differences between the main and supporting characters. This builds analytical skills and strengthens connections to the text.
To create a character map for The Book Thief, list the major characters, assign visual representations, select appropriate colors and scenes, and fill in details about their traits, challenges, and relationships to the protagonist.
Include physical attributes, personality traits, the challenges each character faces, how they interact with the main character, and their importance to the plot in your character map.
Character mapping helps students understand character development, relationships, and plot structure, making it easier to analyze themes and the impact of each character in The Book Thief.
Assign a character map activity where students identify major characters, use visuals, and describe traits, challenges, and interactions with the main character for deeper analysis.
Choose distinct characters and backgrounds, use colors and poses that reflect personalities, and fill in text boxes with concise, insightful notes about each character’s traits and challenges.