Activity Overview
For this activity, students will choose one character from the story and create a character outline, or sketch, for that character. Students should pay close attention to the physical attributes, as well as the personality traits and behavior of the character. Students can also provide information about the challenges that the character faces and imposes, and the role that the character plays in 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 spider map that illustrates and describes 3 traits of a character in the story.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the description boxes, write a trait that the character possesses, as well as an example that illustrates that trait from the story.
- Create an illustration for each description using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 33 Points | Emerging 25 Points | Beginning 17 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Character Trait Analysis | Written explanation of the scene clearly and accurately explains the connection between the character's actions and his or her personality and character development. | Written explanation of the scene attempts to explain the scene's connection to the character's personality and development. Some explanations may be unclear. | Written explanation of the scenes fails to correctly explain the connection between the actions depicted and the character's personality and development. |
| Storyboard Scenes | Storyboard cells clearly show connection with the character trait, through depiction of a specific instance in the text. | Storyboard cells show some connection with the character trait, through depiction of the novel, but some storyboard cells are difficult to understand or fail to capture a specific event in the text. | Storyboard cells do not demonstrate the appropriate character traits or fail to include any specific textual references. |
| Effort and Editing | Work is complete, thorough, and neat. Spelling and grammar are correct. | Most of the sections of the storyboard were at least attempted and work is presentable. The text contains some errors in spelling and/or grammar. | Storyboard is unfinished and/or disorganized. The text contains many errors in spelling and/or grammar. |
Activity Overview
For this activity, students will choose one character from the story and create a character outline, or sketch, for that character. Students should pay close attention to the physical attributes, as well as the personality traits and behavior of the character. Students can also provide information about the challenges that the character faces and imposes, and the role that the character plays in 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 spider map that illustrates and describes 3 traits of a character in the story.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the description boxes, write a trait that the character possesses, as well as an example that illustrates that trait from the story.
- Create an illustration for each description using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 33 Points | Emerging 25 Points | Beginning 17 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Character Trait Analysis | Written explanation of the scene clearly and accurately explains the connection between the character's actions and his or her personality and character development. | Written explanation of the scene attempts to explain the scene's connection to the character's personality and development. Some explanations may be unclear. | Written explanation of the scenes fails to correctly explain the connection between the actions depicted and the character's personality and development. |
| Storyboard Scenes | Storyboard cells clearly show connection with the character trait, through depiction of a specific instance in the text. | Storyboard cells show some connection with the character trait, through depiction of the novel, but some storyboard cells are difficult to understand or fail to capture a specific event in the text. | Storyboard cells do not demonstrate the appropriate character traits or fail to include any specific textual references. |
| Effort and Editing | Work is complete, thorough, and neat. Spelling and grammar are correct. | Most of the sections of the storyboard were at least attempted and work is presentable. The text contains some errors in spelling and/or grammar. | Storyboard is unfinished and/or disorganized. The text contains many errors in spelling and/or grammar. |
How Tos about A Gift of Chappals - Character Traits
Incorporate character trait analysis into a classroom discussion
Invite students to share their character trait findings in a group setting. This encourages active listening and helps students understand different perspectives on the same character.
Prompt students to support character traits with textual evidence
Ask students to find specific quotes or actions from the story that demonstrate each character trait. This builds strong reading comprehension and citing skills.
Facilitate peer feedback on character sketches
Organize a gallery walk where students review each other's spider maps and leave constructive comments. This promotes collaboration and deeper thinking about character analysis.
Connect character traits to real-life scenarios
Encourage students to relate the character's traits to people they know or situations they've experienced. This makes learning more personal and meaningful.
Wrap up with a reflective writing prompt
Have students write a short reflection on how understanding character traits can help them in everyday life. Reflection fosters self-awareness and empathy.
Frequently Asked Questions about A Gift of Chappals - Character Traits
What is a character sketch activity for 'A Gift of Chappals'?
A character sketch activity for 'A Gift of Chappals' asks students to select a character from the story and outline their physical traits, personality, behavior, challenges, and role in the plot. This helps deepen understanding of character development and story themes.
How do you create a spider map for character traits in middle school literature lessons?
To create a spider map for character traits, start by placing the character's name in the center. From there, draw branches for each trait, and add examples and illustrations from the story to explain each trait. This visual organizer helps students connect character details clearly.
What are some example character traits to use from 'A Gift of Chappals'?
Examples of character traits from 'A Gift of Chappals' include kindness (showing compassion towards others), generosity (giving away something valuable), and empathy (understanding others' feelings). Use scenes from the story to support each trait.
Why is studying character traits important in middle school reading assignments?
Studying character traits helps students analyze motivations, understand plot development, and build empathy. It encourages critical thinking and deeper engagement with the text, which are key skills in middle school literature.
What is the best way to help students illustrate character traits from a story?
The best way is to have students pair each trait with a specific example from the text and then create a drawing or scene that visually represents that moment. This approach makes abstract traits concrete and memorable.
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A Gift of Chappals
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