Activity 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. When reading a novel or play, small attributes and details frequently become important as the plot progresses. With character mapping, students will record this information, helping them follow along and catch the subtleties which make reading more enjoyable!
Use a character map to help track the different characters that are discussed in A Raisin in the Sun. Have the students provide the character’s physical traits, internal character traits, and a quote for support!
Mama (Lena)
- Physical Traits: Mid-sixties; widowed; dark brown skin with white hair; graceful; strong face; speech is careless
- Character Traits: Matriarch of the family; very devout in her Christian beliefs; puts her family first; strong-willed and determined; loves gardening
- Quote: “I-I just seen my family falling apart today… just falling to pieces in front of my eyes… When it gets like that in life—you just got to do something different, push on out and do something bigger…”
Other characters included in this map are: Walter, Beneatha, Ruth, Travis, Joseph Asagai, and Mr. Lindner.
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 A Raisin in the Sun and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a character to represent each of the literary 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 Quote.
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. |
Activity 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. When reading a novel or play, small attributes and details frequently become important as the plot progresses. With character mapping, students will record this information, helping them follow along and catch the subtleties which make reading more enjoyable!
Use a character map to help track the different characters that are discussed in A Raisin in the Sun. Have the students provide the character’s physical traits, internal character traits, and a quote for support!
Mama (Lena)
- Physical Traits: Mid-sixties; widowed; dark brown skin with white hair; graceful; strong face; speech is careless
- Character Traits: Matriarch of the family; very devout in her Christian beliefs; puts her family first; strong-willed and determined; loves gardening
- Quote: “I-I just seen my family falling apart today… just falling to pieces in front of my eyes… When it gets like that in life—you just got to do something different, push on out and do something bigger…”
Other characters included in this map are: Walter, Beneatha, Ruth, Travis, Joseph Asagai, and Mr. Lindner.
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 A Raisin in the Sun and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a character to represent each of the literary 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 Quote.
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 Tos about A Raisin in the Sun Character Map
Organize character maps for cooperative learning groups
Assign each group a character and provide clear expectations for their map components. This encourages teamwork and ensures every student contributes thoughtfully.
Model how to use evidence from the text in character maps
Demonstrate how to locate and cite quotes that reveal a character’s traits. Show students how textual evidence supports their analysis and deepens understanding.
Guide students in selecting visual symbols or colors for characters
Encourage students to choose images and colors that reflect each character’s personality. This helps make character traits memorable and personalizes their maps.
Facilitate sharing and discussion of completed character maps
Have students present their maps to the class or small groups. This fosters discussion, allows for peer feedback, and clarifies misconceptions about the characters.
Connect character maps to themes or conflicts in the play
Prompt students to reflect on how character traits influence major events or themes. This ties character mapping to bigger ideas and builds critical thinking skills.
Frequently Asked Questions about A Raisin in the Sun Character Map
What is a character map for A Raisin in the Sun?
A character map for A Raisin in the Sun is a visual or written organizer that helps students track key details about each character, such as physical traits, personality, and important quotes, making it easier to understand character development and relationships in the play.
How do you create a character map for A Raisin in the Sun?
To create a character map for A Raisin in the Sun, list major characters, fill in their physical traits, internal traits, and a supporting quote. Use colors, poses, and backgrounds that fit each character, either on paper or with digital tools like storyboards.
Why is character mapping helpful for teaching A Raisin in the Sun?
Character mapping helps students keep track of details and subtle changes in characters, improving comprehension and engagement with A Raisin in the Sun. It supports close reading and makes classroom discussions more meaningful.
What are examples of character traits for Mama in A Raisin in the Sun?
Mama (Lena) is caring, strong-willed, family-oriented, and deeply religious. She is the matriarch, determined to keep her family together, and shows resilience in difficult times.
What information should students include in a character map for this play?
Students should include each character’s physical traits, personality traits, and a quote that reveals something important about the character in A Raisin in the Sun.
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