Activity Overview
As students read, a storyboard can serve as a helpful character reference log. This log, also known as a character map, allows students to recall relevant information about important characters. With character mapping, students will record this information, helping them follow along and catch the subtleties which make reading more enjoyable!
Here is an example for Cowgirl Kate:
Physical Appearance
- young
- red hair
- wears red boots
Character Traits
- friendly
- responsible
- caring
- cowgirl
Evidence
- "I am a cowgirl from the boots up."
- "’I am very tired.’ But she climbed out of her sleeping bag and fluffed his straw."
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 Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa 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 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 Evidence.
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 known as a character map, allows students to recall relevant information about important characters. With character mapping, students will record this information, helping them follow along and catch the subtleties which make reading more enjoyable!
Here is an example for Cowgirl Kate:
Physical Appearance
- young
- red hair
- wears red boots
Character Traits
- friendly
- responsible
- caring
- cowgirl
Evidence
- "I am a cowgirl from the boots up."
- "’I am very tired.’ But she climbed out of her sleeping bag and fluffed his straw."
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 Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa 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 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 Evidence.
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 Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa Characters
Organize a character discussion circle after mapping
Invite students to share their character maps in small groups, encouraging them to discuss similarities and differences in their observations. This helps students build deeper comprehension by hearing multiple perspectives and strengthens speaking and listening skills.
Model how to cite text evidence for character traits
Show students how to find and reference specific quotes or actions from the book that support their ideas about each character. Explicit modeling clarifies expectations and makes it easier for students to connect evidence to traits.
Guide students to make character predictions
Ask students to use their completed character maps to predict how each character might act in a new situation. This encourages them to apply their understanding and think critically about character motivation.
Connect character maps to personal experiences
Encourage students to relate traits from Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa to people they know or themselves. Making personal connections increases engagement and helps students internalize character qualities.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa Characters
What is a character map, and how can it help students understand Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa?
A character map is a visual organizer that helps students track important details about each character, such as their physical traits, personality, and supporting evidence from the story. Using a character map with Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa supports comprehension by making it easier to recognize character development and recall key information as students read.
How can I create a character map for Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa in my classroom?
To create a character map, have students identify major characters in Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa, select images or drawings to represent each one, and fill in sections for physical traits, character traits, and text evidence. Tools like Storyboard That can simplify this process and make it engaging for grades 2–3.
What are some key character traits of Cowgirl Kate?
Cowgirl Kate is shown to be friendly, responsible, caring, and a true cowgirl. Examples from the text include her willingness to help Cocoa and her signature red boots, emphasizing her dedication and kindness.
Why is using evidence from the text important in character mapping activities?
Using evidence from the text in character mapping helps students practice citing specific details, deepens their understanding of characters, and supports critical thinking by connecting actions or dialogue to character traits.
What are some engaging ways to teach character traits to grade 2–3 students?
Engage students by having them act out scenes, use visual organizers like character maps, or discuss examples from Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa. Interactive activities help students connect traits with character actions in memorable ways.
More Storyboard That Activities
Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa
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