In this activity, students will depict the characters of the story, paying close attention to the physical characteristics and character traits of both major and minor characters. Students will also provide detailed information about the characters’ actions and how they influence other characters. Additionally, students will recognize how specific characters change over time and identify the challenges each character faces in the story.
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Student Instructions
Create a character map for the major characters.
Introduce to the students the concept of character development. Tell them how this aspect of the story is vital and present in every story. Ask the students to recall if they have ever seen a character change in any book, movie, or series. Describe how the development focuses on depth, personality, and motivations which helps build the resolution.
Help the students identify the main characters present in the story. Conduct a discussion regarding the role and significance of each character in the narrative. Teachers can discuss the initial traits and motivations of the characters and how they interact with different elements of the narrative.
Ask students to identify crucial points in the book where the characters make crucial decisions or go through major transformations. These pivotal moments frequently have a significant impact on character development. Students can also use a graphic organizer to analyze the impact of each turning point on all the characters. For instance, how did the church bombing change Kenny, Byron, and Joey?
Students should be encouraged to observe how the characters' actions and demeanor evolve throughout the narrative. What experiences or events are responsible for these changes? Made a progress map of how the characters evolve throughout the narrative and the major reason behind each change.
Encourage the students to think about how the novel's overall meaning and message are impacted by the characters' growth. Ask the students to share their perspectives and opinions and conduct a class discussion to cover and summarize all aspects.
Kenny Watson, the main character in the book, along with his siblings Byron and Joetta, Momma and Daniel Watson, and Grandma Sands (Daniel Watson's mother Sandra) are all major characters who contribute towards the major events of the story.
As the book progresses, Kenny experiences substantial character growth. His awareness of his family and the world around him deepens, as he acquires valuable life lessons and grows more bold. He also gets closer to his family and forms important relationships, especially with his older brother by the end of the story.
Byron is first seen as an elder brother who is cunning, rebellious, and rough. There are times when he seems protective and kind, yet he also taunts and insults Kenny frequently. However, as the story progresses, he becomes more caring and helps his siblings through hard times.