Activity Overview
Depict the characters of From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler, paying close attention to the physical and character traits of both major and minor characters. Students should provide detailed information regarding the characters’ actions and how they influence other characters. In addition, students can identify how the main characters change over time.
Characters included in the character map are:
- Claudia Kincaid
- Jamie Kincaid
- Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler
- Saxonberg
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 From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler 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/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
Depict the characters of From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler, paying close attention to the physical and character traits of both major and minor characters. Students should provide detailed information regarding the characters’ actions and how they influence other characters. In addition, students can identify how the main characters change over time.
Characters included in the character map are:
- Claudia Kincaid
- Jamie Kincaid
- Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler
- Saxonberg
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 From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler 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/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 From the Mixed Up Files Character Map
Use Character Maps to Support Reading Comprehension
Enhance student understanding by connecting character traits to story events. Visual mapping helps students track complex interactions and character growth throughout the novel.
Model Creating a Character Map with Think-Alouds
Demonstrate each step of building a character map while narrating your thought process. This helps students see how to extract key details and organize them meaningfully.
Assign Roles and Evidence Gathering Tasks
Divide the class into groups, each focusing on a different character. Ask students to cite specific text evidence for each trait or action to strengthen close reading skills.
Encourage Students to Predict Character Changes
Invite students to make predictions about how characters might change later in the story. Prompt discussion using evidence from the character map to support their ideas.
Facilitate a Gallery Walk for Peer Feedback
Display completed character maps and have students walk around to view each other's work. Encourage positive feedback and suggestions for deeper analysis.
Frequently Asked Questions about From the Mixed Up Files Character Map
What is a character map for From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler?
A character map for From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler is a visual tool that helps students organize information about the novel's major and minor characters, including their physical traits, personality, actions, and development throughout the story.
How can students describe character traits in From the Mixed-Up Files character maps?
Students can describe character traits by identifying physical features, personality qualities, and specific actions each character takes. They should also note how these traits affect other characters and contribute to the story's events.
What are some examples of challenges faced by characters in From the Mixed-Up Files?
Examples of challenges include Claudia and Jamie managing life away from home, solving the mystery of the statue, and navigating their relationship with Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler. Each character faces personal obstacles that drive their growth.
Why is it important for students to analyze how main characters change over time?
Analyzing character development helps students understand how experiences and challenges shape a character's decisions, values, and relationships, deepening their comprehension of the story and its themes.
What are the steps to create a character map for a novel like From the Mixed-Up Files?
To create a character map, students should: 1) List the major characters, 2) Choose images or symbols for each, 3) Describe physical and character traits, 4) Add information about interactions and challenges, and 5) Select a suitable background or scene.
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