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. With character mapping, students will record this information, helping them follow along with the story.
In this activity, students create an outline for the characters in The Boy in the Striped Pajamas, 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.
Copying the assignment will give you the example above as well as a blank template for you to customize as desired. Feel free to 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.
(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.
Foster meaningful conversation by having students use their completed character maps to lead a group discussion. This helps students make connections and deepen their understanding of the story’s characters.
Assign each student a specific character to represent in the discussion. This encourages participation and ensures a variety of perspectives are heard.
Create open-ended questions about character motivations, changes, and relationships. Use these prompts to encourage students to think critically and support their answers with evidence from their maps.
Ask students to reference specific traits or moments from their character maps during the discussion. This builds text-based reasoning and strengthens their analytical skills.
End the discussion by having students write a brief reflection on how their understanding of the characters changed. This reinforces learning and helps students internalize key insights.
A character map for The Boy in the Striped Pajamas is a visual organizer that helps students track key information about major and minor characters, such as their names, traits, actions, and how they change throughout the story.
To use a character map graphic organizer, provide students with the template, then have them fill in character names, traits, significant moments, and relationships as they read. This supports comprehension and analysis of character development.
Character mapping helps middle school students organize information, make connections between characters, and better understand story events, which enhances reading comprehension and critical thinking.
A character map should include character names, physical and personality traits, significant moments, relationships with others, and any changes the characters undergo during the story.
Yes, you can customize the character map template by adding or removing sections, adjusting the difficulty, and editing prompts to fit your students' grade level or specific learning goals.