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https://www.storyboardthat.com/lesson-plans/the-thirteen-clocks-by-james-thurber/characters
Lesson Plan Overview
Template and Class Instructions
Student Rubric
Lesson Plan Overview
Lesson Plan Overview
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 and catch the subtleties, which make reading more enjoyable!
Here is a completed example for the Duke:
Physical Appearance:
- velvet eye patch and monocle
- wears gloves
- 6'4"
- one leg is shorter than the other
Character Traits:
- cold
- aggressive
- evil
Evidence:
- "He was six feet four, and forty-six, and even colder than he thought he was."
- "One eye wore a velvet patch; the other glittered through a monocle, which made half his body seem closer to you than the other half."
- "The Duke limped because his legs were of different lengths."
Template and Class Instructions
Template and Class Instructions
(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.
- Identify the major characters in The Thirteen Clocks and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a Storyboard That character to represent each of the book characters.
- Select colors and a pose appropriate to story and character traits.
- Choose a scene or background that makes sense for the character.
- Fill in the text boxes for Physical Traits, Character Traits, and Evidence.
Lesson Plan Reference
Student Rubric
Student Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
Character Map Template
Create a character map of the characters in the story. Put the character's name in the title boxes and choose a character and scene to represent each one. As you read, take notes on the characters by answering the questions.
| Proficient 33 Points | Emerging 25 Points | Beginning 17 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Character Picture & Scene | The characters and scenes are both appropriate for the book's characters. | Many of the characters and scenes match the book's characters. | More than half of the characters and scenes do not match the characters in the book. |
| Accuracy of Notes | Most of the information of the notes is correct. | Many of the notes have correct information, but some are incorrect or missing. | Less than half of the information of the notes is correct and relevant. |
| Effort | Work is complete, thorough, and neat. | Most of the sections of the character map were at least attempted and work is presentable. | Character map is unfinished and/or disorganized. |
Lesson Plan Overview
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 and catch the subtleties, which make reading more enjoyable!
Here is a completed example for the Duke:
Physical Appearance:
- velvet eye patch and monocle
- wears gloves
- 6'4"
- one leg is shorter than the other
Character Traits:
- cold
- aggressive
- evil
Evidence:
- "He was six feet four, and forty-six, and even colder than he thought he was."
- "One eye wore a velvet patch; the other glittered through a monocle, which made half his body seem closer to you than the other half."
- "The Duke limped because his legs were of different lengths."
Template and Class Instructions
(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.
- Identify the major characters in The Thirteen Clocks and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a Storyboard That character to represent each of the book characters.
- Select colors and a pose appropriate to story and character traits.
- Choose a scene or background that makes sense for the character.
- Fill in the text boxes for Physical Traits, Character Traits, and Evidence.
Lesson Plan Reference
Student Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
Character Map Template
Create a character map of the characters in the story. Put the character's name in the title boxes and choose a character and scene to represent each one. As you read, take notes on the characters by answering the questions.
| Proficient 33 Points | Emerging 25 Points | Beginning 17 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Character Picture & Scene | The characters and scenes are both appropriate for the book's characters. | Many of the characters and scenes match the book's characters. | More than half of the characters and scenes do not match the characters in the book. |
| Accuracy of Notes | Most of the information of the notes is correct. | Many of the notes have correct information, but some are incorrect or missing. | Less than half of the information of the notes is correct and relevant. |
| Effort | Work is complete, thorough, and neat. | Most of the sections of the character map were at least attempted and work is presentable. | Character map is unfinished and/or disorganized. |
How Tos about The Thirteen Clocks Character Map
1
Organize a collaborative character map with your whole class
Encourage class participation by creating a large character map on the whiteboard or with digital tools. Each student or group can contribute details about a character, building a comprehensive reference together. This boosts engagement and deepens understanding.
2
Assign character roles for dramatic reading
Have students choose a character from the story and read their lines or descriptions aloud with expression. This helps bring characters to life and supports comprehension through active involvement.
3
Compare character maps to identify patterns
Guide students to analyze multiple character maps side by side. Look for recurring traits, motivations, or relationships to uncover deeper story themes and character dynamics.
4
Integrate visual symbols for character traits
Ask students to add icons or drawings that represent key character traits or emotions on their maps. Visual cues help reinforce memory and make the maps more engaging and accessible for all learners.
5
Review and reflect on character development over time
At key points in the story, have students update their character maps with new insights or changes in the characters. This ongoing process fosters critical thinking and helps track character growth or shifts in behavior.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Thirteen Clocks Character Map
What is a character map in literature?
A character map is a visual organizer that helps students track important details about characters, such as their physical traits, personality, and key evidence from the text. It supports comprehension and deeper analysis.
How can I create a character map for The Thirteen Clocks?
To create a character map for The Thirteen Clocks, list major characters, choose visuals or icons for each, and fill in sections for physical appearance, character traits, and supporting evidence from the story.
Why is character mapping helpful for students?
Character mapping helps students organize information, identify relationships, and remember key traits, making it easier to follow complex stories and engage in meaningful discussions.
What are some examples of character traits to include in a map?
Include traits such as brave, kind, selfish, cunning, or generous. Use evidence from the text to support each trait.
What is the best way to introduce character maps to elementary students?
The best way is to model creating a character map together, use familiar stories, and encourage students to reference the text for details. Visuals and collaborative activities can boost engagement.
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https://www.storyboardthat.com/lesson-plans/the-thirteen-clocks-by-james-thurber/characters
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© 2026 - Clever Prototypes, LLC - All rights reserved.
StoryboardThat is a trademark of Clever Prototypes, LLC, and Registered in U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
