As students read, a storyboard can serve as a helpful character reference log. This character map allows students to recall relevant information about important characters. When reading a story, 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!
You can click on this map and create a copy on your teacher account. Feel free to use it as is, or to edit it for the level or interest of your class. Printing it as worksheets for your students to use while reading is a fast and easy way to incorporate this character map into your classroom. Or, if you prefer, create a blank template for your students to complete!
Esperanza introduces us to many characters, and not all of them are included in the character map. Choose the characters you or your students feel are the most important. You may wish to change the box headings in the storyboard to focus on different aspects, such as occupation or treatment of women/Latinos etc.
(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 using character maps as a springboard for group discussions. Collaborative analysis helps students develop critical thinking skills and appreciate different perspectives.
Give students specific roles, like discussion leader or character expert, to ensure everyone participates and stays focused on analyzing characters.
Ask students to reference their character maps when sharing observations. This encourages them to use evidence from the text and their own notes.
Guide the discussion by asking students how character traits influence decisions and drive the story forward. Making connections deepens understanding.
Foster a classroom environment where students feel safe to disagree politely and back up their ideas with textual evidence.
A character map for The House on Mango Street is a visual tool that helps students track and organize key details about the book’s characters, such as traits, relationships, and challenges, making it easier to understand the story as they read.
To use a character map, give students a printable worksheet or digital template where they can fill in information about each major character while reading. This supports comprehension by helping students notice important traits and connections throughout the novel.
A good character map for The House on Mango Street should include each character’s name, personality traits, their relationship to the main character (Esperanza), and the major challenges they face in the story.
Yes, you can easily edit the character map template to fit different grade levels or class needs. Adjust headings, add prompts, or change the focus to emphasize aspects like cultural identity or character development as appropriate.
Using a character map boosts reading comprehension, helps students remember character details, and encourages deeper analysis by tracking how characters interact and change. It’s a quick, effective way to engage students with the text.