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 Ella Enchanted, 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 the major characters in Ella Enchanted.
Student Instructions:
- Click “Start Assignment”.
- Choose a Storyboard That character to represent each of the book characters. Note: be sure to select colors and a pose appropriate to story and character traits.
- Fill in Textables for "Physical/Character Traits", "How does this character change throughout the novel?", 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 Ella Enchanted, 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 the major characters in Ella Enchanted.
Student Instructions:
- Click “Start Assignment”.
- Choose a Storyboard That character to represent each of the book characters. Note: be sure to select colors and a pose appropriate to story and character traits.
- Fill in Textables for "Physical/Character Traits", "How does this character change throughout the novel?", 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 Ella Enchanted
Organize a collaborative character map as a class
Guide students to work together by assigning each student or group a different character from Ella Enchanted. Use a large poster or digital tool to collect everyone’s findings, creating a shared resource that encourages discussion and deeper understanding of character roles.
Assign roles and materials for group mapping
Distribute character assignments, art supplies, and template sections to students. Encourage creativity in representing physical and personality traits. This approach boosts engagement and provides multiple perspectives on each character.
Facilitate character analysis discussions
Lead students in short debates or pair-share talks about their assigned characters’ challenges and growth. This sharpens critical thinking and helps students make connections between characters’ actions and the story’s plot.
Compile and display the collaborative character map
Collect all group contributions and assemble them on a bulletin board or digital slideshow. Displaying the finished map lets students see how each character fits into the overall narrative, reinforcing comprehension and pride in their work.
Reflect on character relationships and story impact
Invite students to analyze connections between characters, discussing how their interactions influence the plot. Use guiding questions to prompt deeper thinking, ensuring students understand the importance of each character’s role in Ella Enchanted.
Frequently Asked Questions about Character Map for Ella Enchanted
What is a character map for Ella Enchanted?
A character map for Ella Enchanted is a visual organizer that helps students track the main and supporting characters, their physical and personality traits, how they change throughout the novel, and the challenges they face. It enhances comprehension and analysis skills.
How can I help students create a character map for Ella Enchanted?
To help students create a character map for Ella Enchanted, guide them to identify each character's attributes, select appropriate images or symbols, and fill in details about traits, changes, and challenges. Encourage them to use colors and poses that reflect each character’s role in the story.
What are the key elements to include in an Ella Enchanted character map?
The key elements are physical/character traits, how the character evolves during the story, and the main challenges they face or create. Including these details helps students understand character development and plot importance.
Why use character maps in a middle grade classroom?
Character maps support students in organizing information, visualizing character relationships, and deepening comprehension of novels like Ella Enchanted. They are especially effective for grades 4–6 as they reinforce critical thinking and analytical skills.
What tools can teachers use to make character maps for Ella Enchanted?
Teachers can use Storyboard That, printable templates, or graphic organizers for students to visually map out characters from Ella Enchanted. Digital tools allow for customization with colors, images, and text to match character traits and story details.
More Storyboard That Activities
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