Activity Overview
As students read, a storyboard can serve as a helpful character reference log. This log (also called a character map) allows students to recall relevant information about important characters. When reading a novel, small attributes and details frequently become important as the plot progresses. With character mapping, students will record this information, helping them follow along and catch the subtleties which make reading more enjoyable!
Example Character Analysis
Eddie
Physical Traits:
- 83 years old
- walks with a limp and a cane
- squat, white-haired older man
- short neck
- barrel chest
Character Traits
- Keeps to himself
- likes children, but dislikes teenagers
- feels like he didn’t do enough with his life
- feels guilt and anger over losing Marguerite to brain cancer
Quote: “I was sad because I didn’t do anything with my life. I was nothing. I accomplished nothing. I was lost."
Other characters included in this map are
- Marguerite
- The Blue Man (Joseph)
- The Captain
- Ruby
- Tala
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 The Five People You Meet in Heaven 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 Traits, Character Traits, and Quote.
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
Example Character Analysis
Eddie
Physical Traits:
- 83 years old
- walks with a limp and a cane
- squat, white-haired older man
- short neck
- barrel chest
Character Traits
- Keeps to himself
- likes children, but dislikes teenagers
- feels like he didn’t do enough with his life
- feels guilt and anger over losing Marguerite to brain cancer
Quote: “I was sad because I didn’t do anything with my life. I was nothing. I accomplished nothing. I was lost."
Other characters included in this map are
- Marguerite
- The Blue Man (Joseph)
- The Captain
- Ruby
- Tala
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 The Five People You Meet in Heaven 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 Traits, Character Traits, and Quote.
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 The Five People You Meet in Heaven
Introduce character maps with a class discussion
Begin your lesson by asking students what they notice about characters in stories. Guide the conversation toward how small details can reveal a lot about a character. This primes students to pay attention and engage with the mapping activity.
Model filling out a character map together
Display a blank character map on the board and choose a well-known character from another story. Work as a class to fill in physical traits, character traits, and a quote. This provides a clear example and helps students understand expectations.
Assign students to create their own character maps
Have students select characters from ‘The Five People You Meet in Heaven’ and fill out character maps individually or with a partner. This allows them to apply what they’ve learned and personalize their analysis.
Encourage students to use evidence from the text
Remind students to find details and quotes directly from the novel to support their character analysis. Highlight the importance of using textual evidence to make their character maps accurate and meaningful.
Facilitate a gallery walk to share character maps
Display all completed character maps around the classroom and invite students to walk around and read each other’s work. Encourage discussion about different interpretations and details noticed by peers, deepening understanding for all.
Frequently Asked Questions about Character Map for The Five People You Meet in Heaven
What is a character map for 'The Five People You Meet in Heaven'?
A character map for 'The Five People You Meet in Heaven' is a visual organizer that helps students track important details about each character, such as physical traits, personality, and key quotes, enhancing comprehension as the story progresses.
How do I create a character map for a novel in high school English class?
To create a character map, list each main character, choose images or symbols to represent them, and fill in sections for physical traits, character traits, and meaningful quotes. Use backgrounds and colors that reflect their roles or personalities.
Why is character mapping helpful when reading 'The Five People You Meet in Heaven'?
Character mapping helps students remember small but important details, follow character development, and understand relationships, making it easier to grasp subtle themes and enjoy the novel more fully.
What are some tips for choosing quotes for a character map activity?
Select quotes that reveal a character’s motivations, emotions, or changes throughout the story. Look for lines that are memorable or that highlight key moments in their journey.
Can character maps be used individually or in partner activities?
Yes, character maps work well as both individual assignments and partner activities, allowing students to analyze characters on their own or collaborate to deepen understanding.
More Storyboard That Activities
Five People You Meet in Heaven, The
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