Activity Overview
In this activity, students should depict the characters of the story, paying close attention to the physical and character traits of both major and minor characters. Students should provide detailed information regarding the character’s actions and how they influence other characters. In addition, students can identify how the main character changed over time.
Characters included in the character map are:
- Jess
- Leslie Burke
- May Belle
- Miss Edmunds
- Janice Avery
- Gary Fulcher
- Brenda
- Ellie
- Mom
- Dad
- Bill and Judy Burke
- Mrs. Myers
- Joyce Ann
- Miss Bessie
- Prince Terrain
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 Bridge to Terabithia 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 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
In this activity, students should depict the characters of the story, paying close attention to the physical and character traits of both major and minor characters. Students should provide detailed information regarding the character’s actions and how they influence other characters. In addition, students can identify how the main character changed over time.
Characters included in the character map are:
- Jess
- Leslie Burke
- May Belle
- Miss Edmunds
- Janice Avery
- Gary Fulcher
- Brenda
- Ellie
- Mom
- Dad
- Bill and Judy Burke
- Mrs. Myers
- Joyce Ann
- Miss Bessie
- Prince Terrain
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 Bridge to Terabithia 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 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 Bridge to Terabithia Character Map
How to Facilitate Meaningful Classroom Discussions about Bridge to Terabithia Characters
Encourage students to share their thoughts on characters by creating an open, respectful environment. Let everyone know that every idea is valued and that it’s okay to see characters differently.
Prompt students with guiding questions about character motivations
Ask specific, open-ended questions like “Why do you think Jess acted that way?” or “What might Leslie have felt in this moment?” to help students think deeper about each character’s actions and choices.
Connect character actions to students’ own experiences
Invite students to relate the story to their own lives by asking, “Have you ever faced a challenge like Janice?” or “How would you feel if you were May Belle?” This builds empathy and personal engagement.
Use visual aids or anchor charts during discussions
Display the character map or create a discussion board to track ideas as students share. Visuals help everyone see the connections and make it easy to reference character traits and changes over time.
Wrap up with a quick reflective activity
Have students jot down one new insight they gained about a character after the discussion. This reinforces learning and gives you feedback on what resonated most.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bridge to Terabithia Character Map
What is a Bridge to Terabithia character map?
A Bridge to Terabithia character map is a visual tool that helps students organize and analyze the main and minor characters in the novel. It highlights each character’s traits, actions, relationships, and development throughout the story.
How do you create a character map for Bridge to Terabithia?
To create a character map for Bridge to Terabithia, list the major and minor characters, choose visual representations for each, and fill in details about their physical traits, personality, challenges, and how they change. Add scenes or backgrounds that match each character’s role in the story.
Which characters should be included in a Bridge to Terabithia character map?
Include main characters like Jess and Leslie, as well as important supporting characters such as May Belle, Miss Edmunds, Janice Avery, Gary Fulcher, Brenda, Ellie, Mom, Dad, Bill and Judy Burke, Mrs. Myers, Joyce Ann, Miss Bessie, Prince Terrien, and others relevant to the plot.
Why is making a character map helpful when teaching Bridge to Terabithia?
Making a character map helps students visually connect character traits, relationships, and development, making it easier to understand the story and analyze how characters influence one another and the plot.
What are some tips for helping students analyze character development in Bridge to Terabithia?
Encourage students to track how a character changes over time, identify key events that influence growth, and reflect on challenges faced. Use guiding questions and connect character actions to story themes.
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