Activity Overview
Character maps are a great way for students to keep track of character traits, relationships, motivations, and more throughout a story. In this activity, students will create a character map of the characters in Chains, paying close attention to the physical attributes and the traits of both major and minor characters. Students 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 each character in Chains. Address Physical/Character Traits, How does this character interact with the main character?, and What challenges does this character face?
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Identify the major characters in Chains and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a Storyboard That character to represent each of the book characters.
- Choose a scene or background that makes sense for the character.
- Fill in the text boxes for Physical/Character Traits, How does this character interact with the main character?, and What challenges does this character face?
- Save and exit when you're done.
Requirements: Physical/Character Traits, How does this character interact with the main character?, 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 great way for students to keep track of character traits, relationships, motivations, and more throughout a story. In this activity, students will create a character map of the characters in Chains, paying close attention to the physical attributes and the traits of both major and minor characters. Students 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 each character in Chains. Address Physical/Character Traits, How does this character interact with the main character?, and What challenges does this character face?
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Identify the major characters in Chains and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a Storyboard That character to represent each of the book characters.
- Choose a scene or background that makes sense for the character.
- Fill in the text boxes for Physical/Character Traits, How does this character interact with the main character?, and What challenges does this character face?
- Save and exit when you're done.
Requirements: Physical/Character Traits, How does this character interact with the main character?, 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 Chains Character Map
Organize a collaborative character map activity for your class
Foster teamwork by dividing your class into small groups and assigning each group a different character from Chains. Each group creates a character map, then presents their findings to the class. This allows students to learn from each other and see how characters interconnect within the story.
Provide clear guidelines and examples before students begin
Clarify expectations by modeling a sample character map together as a class. Show an example for one character, highlighting how to fill in each section, so students feel confident about what to include in their own maps.
Encourage students to cite textual evidence for character traits
Boost critical thinking by asking students to find and record specific quotes or page numbers that support their descriptions of character traits or challenges. This practice strengthens reading comprehension and text analysis skills.
Facilitate a gallery walk to share and reflect on character maps
Promote engagement by displaying all character maps around the classroom. Let students walk around, review each other's work, and add sticky notes with questions or positive feedback. This builds classroom community and sparks deeper discussion.
Frequently Asked Questions about Chains Character Map
What is a character map for the novel Chains?
A character map for Chains is a visual organizer that helps students track the traits, relationships, motivations, and challenges of major and minor characters in Laurie Halse Anderson's novel. It supports comprehension and deeper analysis of the story.
How do I make a character map for Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson?
To create a character map for Chains, identify key characters, summarize their physical and character traits, describe their interactions with the main character, and list the challenges they face. Use boxes or visual templates to organize this information clearly.
What should I include in a character map for Chains?
Your Chains character map should include: each character's name, physical and character traits, relationship with the main character, and challenges faced. Adding visuals or brief examples can make it more engaging.
Why is making a character map helpful when reading Chains?
Making a character map while reading Chains helps students better understand character development, relationships, and plot events. It aids recall during discussions and assignments, and supports critical thinking about the story.
Are there easy templates or tools to create a Chains character map for middle schoolers?
Yes, there are user-friendly tools like Storyboard That and printable character map templates tailored for grades 6-8. These help students organize details about Chains' characters in a visually appealing and structured way.
More Storyboard That Activities
Chains
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