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 Wild Robot, 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 in The Wild Robot.
Student Instructions:
- Click “Start Assignment”.
- Choose a Storyboard That character to represent each of the book characters. Note: be sure to select colors and a pose appropriate to story and character traits.
- Fill in Textables for "Physical/Character Traits", "How does this character change throughout the novel?", and "What challenges does this character face?"
Lesson Plan Reference
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 Make Characterizations Easier For Students
Model the Process with a Popular Movie/Book Character
At first glance, doing a full characterization can be difficult for students. If you first model the process with a popular character that everyone knows and loves, they will be more easily able to translate the skills on their own.
Discuss How Characters Change Over Time
One of the most difficult parts of a characterization is understanding and acknowledging that many characters grow and change over time (and we don't just mean their clothes!) Helping students approach dynamic characters that change will make the whole process easier.
Use a Graphic Organizer to Highlight the Important Elements of Characterization
Creating a graphic organizer that lists characters' physical traits, what challenges the character faces himself/herself, and the challenges they impose on others is a powerful way to start understanding characters better. Including the element of how the character changes over time is also integral to the study of characters.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Character Mapping
Why are characters so important to the story?
Characters are tied closely to the action of the story so they are extremely important. The protagonist moves the story and the antagonist gets in the way of the story. Characters are one of the most important story elements to investigate.
Should students only map major characters?
Although major characters definitely have more impact on the story, students should map both major characters and minor characters so they can fully understand the depth of the characterization.
What exactly IS character mapping?
Character mapping involves using a visual aid to show the physical traits of each character, as well as the challenges the character faces along with the challenges they offer other characters. Character maps show whether the character grew and changed throughout the story.
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