This activity allows for a more in-depth look at character traits. Students will need to provide textual evidence to support the character trait they choose. Students can support their idea with dialogue, thoughts, or actions of the character they are portraying. They can also use a character map to compare different characters.
Example character traits for characters in The Mouse and the Motorcycle:
Here is an example of a character trait storyboard:
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a storyboard that shows one character traits for characters from The Mouse and the Motorcycle.
Gather your students in a circle and choose a character from The Mouse and the Motorcycle. Invite each student to share one trait they observed, providing specific examples from the text. Encourage respectful listening and ask follow-up questions to deepen understanding. This approach builds critical thinking and empathy while making character analysis interactive and fun.
Choose a character and trait, then read a passage aloud that shows the trait in action. Pause to highlight the dialogue, thoughts, or actions that support your choice. Clearly explain how these details prove the trait, helping students learn to back up their own ideas with strong evidence.
Encourage students to skim the text for lines where characters speak or act in ways that reveal their traits. Have them copy or underline these quotes in their notebooks. Discuss together why each quote is a good fit, reinforcing the importance of direct evidence.
Create a large chart with character names and possible traits. As a class, add sticky notes with evidence from the story under each character. This visual tool helps students see patterns and makes abstract traits more concrete.
Pair students to share their character trait selections and supporting evidence. Teach them to ask clarifying questions or suggest alternative traits based on the text. Positive peer feedback builds confidence and sharpens analytical skills.
Character traits in The Mouse and the Motorcycle are the qualities and behaviors that define each character, such as adventurous, kind, or courageous. Identifying these traits helps students understand characters' motivations and actions.
Students can find textual evidence by looking for lines of dialogue, thoughts, or actions in the story that show a character's trait. For example, if Ralph helps a friend, his actions prove he is courageous or kind.
A character map is a graphic organizer that helps students visually compare and contrast different characters' traits and supporting evidence. It is used to organize ideas when analyzing The Mouse and the Motorcycle.
In the book, Keith is shown as kind, adventurous, and thoughtful, while Ralph the Mouse is adventurous, courageous, daring, irresponsible, and honest.
To make a storyboard, choose a character, select a trait, and draw scenes that show this trait with textual evidence. Add captions or quotes from the book to support your choice.