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 Al Capone Does My Shirts, paying close attention to the physical attributes, and the traits of both major and minor characters. They 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 characters in Al Capone Does My Shirts.
Student Instructions:
- Identify the main and supporting characters in Al Capone Does My Shirts 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 the character's 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 other characters?", 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. |
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 Al Capone Does My Shirts, paying close attention to the physical attributes, and the traits of both major and minor characters. They 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 characters in Al Capone Does My Shirts.
Student Instructions:
- Identify the main and supporting characters in Al Capone Does My Shirts 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 the character's 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 other characters?", 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 Tos about Character Map for Al Capone Does My Shirts
Organize a classroom discussion using student character maps
Facilitate a group conversation where students share their character maps. This encourages students to compare insights, clarify misunderstandings, and deepen understanding of the book’s characters.
Set clear expectations for respectful dialogue
Explain guidelines for listening and responding to peers’ ideas. Establishing norms ensures a safe environment for all students to participate and learn from each other.
Prompt students with open-ended questions
Ask questions like “Why do you think this character acted this way?” or “How do these challenges shape their decisions?” This sparks critical thinking and helps students explore character motivation.
Encourage students to make connections to their own lives
Invite students to relate character experiences to real-world situations or their own experiences. Personal connections make the discussion more meaningful and memorable.
Summarize key insights and reinforce learning
Recap the main ideas discussed and highlight how sharing different perspectives deepens comprehension. This helps students retain what they’ve learned and appreciate diverse viewpoints.
Frequently Asked Questions about Character Map for Al Capone Does My Shirts
What is a character map for Al Capone Does My Shirts?
A character map for Al Capone Does My Shirts is a visual organizer that helps students track and analyze the main and supporting characters, their traits, relationships, challenges, and roles in the story, making it easier to understand the plot and character development.
How can I create a character map for Al Capone Does My Shirts in my classroom?
To create a character map, have students identify key characters, select representations (like images or drawings), choose traits and backgrounds, and fill in details about each character’s attributes, interactions, and challenges using a template or digital tool.
What should be included in a character map for Al Capone Does My Shirts?
A character map should include each character’s name, physical and personality traits, relationships with others, challenges faced, and their importance to the plot.
Why is using a character map helpful when reading Al Capone Does My Shirts?
Using a character map helps students visualize relationships, track character development, and better understand the motivations and challenges faced by each character, which deepens comprehension of the novel.
What are some tips for making character maps engaging for middle school students?
To make character maps engaging, allow students to use color, images, digital tools, and creative backgrounds, encourage group collaboration, and connect traits or challenges to scenes from the book for meaningful analysis.
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Al Capone Does My Shirts
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