Activity Overview
We see many characters through Anne’s eyes, and while her descriptions are sometimes biased, Anne shows a surprising amount of insight. Anne takes great care to give “Kitty” lots of information, and she reflects on earlier entries when she may have been overcome with emotion. The members of the Secret Annexe, as well as those helping them, are are a huge part of the story. There are many conflicts that arise (and stick around) because of the confinement, which contributes to how each character develops over the two years.
In this activity, students will depict the characters of the story, paying close attention to the physical and character traits of both major and minor characters. Students provide detailed information regarding the characters’ actions and how they influence other characters. In addition, students can identify how the main character changes over time.
Have students create the characters and fill in the information from a template, or you can make the characters on a blank map and print it out for students to complete. Alternatively, assign different characters to different students or groups to go into greater detail. Students or groups can present their information to the rest of the class.
Additional characters could include:
- Elli Vossen
- Mr. Koophius
- Mr. Kraler
- Henk Van Santen
- Mouschi
- Boche
- Lies
- Granny
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 The Diary of Anne Frank 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/Character Traits, How Does This Character Change over Time, and How Does This Character Interact with the Main Character.
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 all appropriate for the book's characters. They reflect strong understanding of the book's most important characters. | Most of the characters and scenes are appropriate for the book's characters. They reflect emerging understanding of the book's most important characters. | Many of the characters and scenes do not match the characters in the book. The project reflects a lack of understanding of the major characters. |
| 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. | Much of the information of the notes is incomplete and/or incorrect and irrelevant. |
| Effort and Editing | Work is complete, thorough, and neat. Spelling and grammar are correct. | Most of the sections of the character map were at least attempted and work is presentable. The text contains some errors in spelling and/or grammar. | Character map is unfinished and/or disorganized. The text contains many errors in spelling and/or grammar. |
Activity Overview
We see many characters through Anne’s eyes, and while her descriptions are sometimes biased, Anne shows a surprising amount of insight. Anne takes great care to give “Kitty” lots of information, and she reflects on earlier entries when she may have been overcome with emotion. The members of the Secret Annexe, as well as those helping them, are are a huge part of the story. There are many conflicts that arise (and stick around) because of the confinement, which contributes to how each character develops over the two years.
In this activity, students will depict the characters of the story, paying close attention to the physical and character traits of both major and minor characters. Students provide detailed information regarding the characters’ actions and how they influence other characters. In addition, students can identify how the main character changes over time.
Have students create the characters and fill in the information from a template, or you can make the characters on a blank map and print it out for students to complete. Alternatively, assign different characters to different students or groups to go into greater detail. Students or groups can present their information to the rest of the class.
Additional characters could include:
- Elli Vossen
- Mr. Koophius
- Mr. Kraler
- Henk Van Santen
- Mouschi
- Boche
- Lies
- Granny
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 The Diary of Anne Frank 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/Character Traits, How Does This Character Change over Time, and How Does This Character Interact with the Main Character.
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 all appropriate for the book's characters. They reflect strong understanding of the book's most important characters. | Most of the characters and scenes are appropriate for the book's characters. They reflect emerging understanding of the book's most important characters. | Many of the characters and scenes do not match the characters in the book. The project reflects a lack of understanding of the major characters. |
| 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. | Much of the information of the notes is incomplete and/or incorrect and irrelevant. |
| Effort and Editing | Work is complete, thorough, and neat. Spelling and grammar are correct. | Most of the sections of the character map were at least attempted and work is presentable. The text contains some errors in spelling and/or grammar. | Character map is unfinished and/or disorganized. The text contains many errors in spelling and/or grammar. |
How Tos about Diary of Anne Frank Character Map
Organize a collaborative character analysis discussion
Hold a class or small group discussion where students share their character maps and insights. Encourage respectful listening and prompt students to compare perspectives on character motivations and growth. This fosters deeper understanding and critical thinking.
Assign roles for peer feedback on character maps
Pair or group students and have them review each other's character maps. Ask students to provide specific compliments and constructive suggestions to help peers improve their analysis and attention to detail.
Integrate quotes from the text to support character traits
Guide students to find and include direct quotes from Anne’s diary that illustrate each character’s personality or changes. This strengthens evidence-based reasoning and connects analysis to the original source.
Display finished character maps in the classroom
Create a bulletin board or dedicated wall space for students to post their completed character maps. Celebrate creativity and encourage students to reference the visual display during future lessons or discussions.
Frequently Asked Questions about Diary of Anne Frank Character Map
What is a character map for The Diary of Anne Frank?
A character map for The Diary of Anne Frank is a visual tool that helps students organize information about each character, including their traits, relationships, and how they change throughout the story. It encourages deeper understanding by allowing students to analyze both major and minor characters from Anne’s perspective.
How do you create a character map for Anne Frank's diary in the classroom?
To create a character map, students identify key characters, use a template or blank map, and fill in details like physical traits, personality, and relationships. They can add visuals, select appropriate colors, and present their findings to the class for discussion.
Which characters should be included in an Anne Frank character map activity?
Include major characters like Anne Frank, her family, and the other members of the Secret Annexe. Also consider adding helpers such as Elli Vossen, Mr. Koophius, Mr. Kraler, Henk Van Santen, and even pets like Mouschi and Boche for a more detailed exploration.
What are some tips for teaching character development using The Diary of Anne Frank?
Encourage students to analyze changes in characters over time, explore how confinement affects relationships, and reflect on how Anne’s perspective shapes her descriptions. Assigning characters to groups and presenting findings can deepen understanding.
Why is understanding character traits important when studying The Diary of Anne Frank?
Understanding character traits helps students connect with the story, recognize personal growth, and see how each character’s actions influence others. This insight fosters empathy and a richer comprehension of historical context.
More Storyboard That Activities
Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl
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