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 Fish in a Tree, 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 Fish in a Tree.
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 Fish in a Tree, 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 Fish in a Tree.
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 Fish in a Tree Characters
Incorporate character mapping into literature circles for deeper discussion
Boost engagement by having small groups create and compare character maps during literature circles. Encouraging students to discuss their interpretations helps them notice different character traits, challenges, and growth, leading to richer conversations and a better understanding of the text.
Assign roles for each group member to focus on different character traits
Divide responsibilities among students—one tracks physical traits, another follows character growth, and another notes challenges faced. This fosters collaboration and ensures all aspects of the character are explored in detail.
Guide students to use evidence from the text when mapping traits
Encourage text-based support for every trait or change listed on the map. Ask students to find quotes or page numbers so they connect character analysis to specific moments in the story, building close reading skills.
Facilitate group presentations to share character maps and insights
Have each group present their completed character maps to the class. This gives students a chance to articulate their thinking and learn from peers’ perspectives on the same characters.
Reflect as a class on how character mapping changed understanding of the story
Lead a discussion or quick-write where students share how mapping helped them see character development or relationships more clearly. This reinforces the value of the activity and helps students internalize critical reading strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions about Fish in a Tree Characters
What is a character map and how can it help students understand Fish in a Tree?
A character map is a visual organizer that helps students track important information about characters, such as physical traits, personality, challenges, and growth. In Fish in a Tree, it supports deeper understanding by letting students see how characters change and relate to the story’s plot.
How do you create a character map for Fish in a Tree?
To create a character map for Fish in a Tree, select a character, choose a visual representation, and fill in sections for their traits, challenges, and development. Using a storyboard tool, add text boxes for key details and update as you read or after finishing the book.
What character traits should students focus on when mapping Fish in a Tree characters?
Students should focus on both physical attributes (like appearance) and personality traits (such as perseverance, kindness, or insecurity). It’s also important to note how characters change and what challenges they face during the story.
Why is understanding character challenges important in Fish in a Tree?
Understanding character challenges reveals how characters grow and the themes of Fish in a Tree. It helps students empathize with characters, see connections to real-life struggles, and comprehend the plot’s significance.
What are some best practices for teaching character mapping in middle school ELA?
Best practices include modeling how to fill out a character map, encouraging use of evidence from the text, allowing creative representation, and facilitating discussion about character growth, motivations, and relationships to the plot.
More Storyboard That Activities
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