Activity Overview
Character maps are a helpful tool for students to use as they're reading, although they can also be used after completing a book. In this activity, students will create a character map of the characters in The War That Saved My Life, 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.
Template and Class Instructions
(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.
Student Instructions:
- Identify the major characters in The War That Saved My Life 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 the story and character traits.
- Choose a scene or background that makes sense for the character.
- Fill in Textables for "Physical/Character Traits", "How does this character interact with the main character?", and "What challenges does this character face?"
Lesson Plan Reference
- [ELA-Literacy/W/6/6] Use technology, including the Internet, to produce and publish writing as well as to interact and collaborate with others; demonstrate sufficient command of keyboarding skills to type a minimum of three pages in a single sitting.
- [ELA-Literacy/RL/4/3] Describe in depth a character, setting, or event in a story or drama, drawing on specific details in the text (e.g., a character's thoughts, words, or actions).
- [ELA-Literacy/RL/5/3] Compare and contrast two or more characters, settings, or events in a story or drama, drawing on specific details in the text (e.g., how characters interact).
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| 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 To Analyze Character Relationships in “The War That Saved My Life”
Analyze Characters Individually
Ask the students to first analyze the main characters individually. Students can focus on physical appearance, personality traits, character motivations and contributions to the narrative initially. Once students have a better idea of how each character is making an impact, it will be easier to analyze how these characters interact with each other.
Analyze Developments
Take note of how the connections change as the narrative progresses. Pay close attention to crucial times or occasions that shape these shifts. For instance, initially, Susan did not see herself as fit to take care of children resulting in an awkward relationship, however, her character proved to be of a sensible and caring person who helped Ada and Jamie despite the risk to her own life.
Talk About Conflicts
Find occasions when there is tension or conflict between the characters. These disputes may be caused by disparities in personality, beliefs, or environmental factors. Conflicts can be a major factor in determining character relationships hence, urge the students to focus on this part more.
Perform Comparative Analysis
Compare the connections between various character pairings. What distinguishes them from one another? What characteristics or recurring themes do they share? Students can make relationship charts to analyze how the dynamics differ and change throughout the story.
Make Spider Maps
Introduce the idea of spider maps to students and ask them to analyze characters and their relationships with the help of this concept. Spider maps visually represent an idea which enhances learning methods.
Frequently Asked Questions About Characters in The War That Saved My Life
What is the nature of Ada's bond with her mother?
The beginning of Ada's mother-daughter relationship is marked by violence and neglect. Due to Ada's condition, her mother is particularly tyrannical and abusive to her. The story's major turning point is when Ada leaves this terrible relationship and decides to take Jamie with her to a foster home because of the bombing and war threats.
How can students track the development of Ada and Susan’s relationship?
Ada and Susan's bond changes significantly. Ada is first wary and distrustful since she has never before received true attention. Ada soon gains Susan's confidence and develops a close relationship with her as Susan demonstrates her kindness, patience, and love for her. Students can create a storyboard to demonstrate this relationship and make the story easier and more engaging.
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War That Saved My Life, The
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