Activity Overview
Though there are only a few characters in the Hatchet book, and each one has a very powerful impact on the protagonist, Brian. In this character map, students should think about the impact each character has on Brian and his ability to survive after the crash.
Students can complete this character map while they read or once they've finished. Feel free to extend the activity to have students keep track of other important aspects of each character!
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 Brian and the other characters.
- Identify characters in Hatcher and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a character from one of the character tabs 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.
- Use text boxes to fill inTraits, Impact on Brian's Survival, and a 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
Though there are only a few characters in the Hatchet book, and each one has a very powerful impact on the protagonist, Brian. In this character map, students should think about the impact each character has on Brian and his ability to survive after the crash.
Students can complete this character map while they read or once they've finished. Feel free to extend the activity to have students keep track of other important aspects of each character!
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 Brian and the other characters.
- Identify characters in Hatcher and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a character from one of the character tabs 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.
- Use text boxes to fill inTraits, Impact on Brian's Survival, and a 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 Hatchet
Incorporate character traits into group discussions
Invite students to share their character maps in small groups and compare trait choices. This encourages deeper analysis and helps students understand different perspectives about each character’s role in Brian’s survival.
Guide students to support their ideas with evidence
Ask students to cite specific quotes or actions from the text when discussing each character’s impact. This strengthens textual analysis skills and ensures claims are evidence-based.
Facilitate connections between characters and real-life situations
Encourage students to relate character traits or decisions in Hatchet to challenges they might face in real life. This builds empathy and helps students internalize the story’s lessons.
Use visuals to enhance character understanding
Have students illustrate their character maps with drawings, symbols, or digital images that represent key traits. Visuals make abstract qualities more concrete for all learners.
Frequently Asked Questions about Character Map for Hatchet
What is a character map for Hatchet?
A character map for Hatchet is a visual organizer that helps students identify and analyze the main characters in Gary Paulsen's novel Hatchet, focusing on their traits and how they impact Brian's survival after the plane crash.
How do I create a character map for Brian in Hatchet?
To create a character map for Brian, list key traits, select an image or symbol, add a fitting background, and describe how each character—including Brian—impacts the story or his survival. Add a meaningful quote for depth.
Why is understanding character impact important when teaching Hatchet?
Understanding character impact helps students see how each character influences Brian's decisions and survival skills in Hatchet, deepening comprehension and engagement with the story.
What are some creative ways to extend the Hatchet character map activity?
Teachers can extend the Hatchet character map by having students track character changes over time, compare their maps in groups, or connect character traits to real-life survival skills.
Which characters should be included in a Hatchet character map besides Brian?
Besides Brian, include key supporting characters such as Brian's parents, the pilot, and any animals or figures that significantly affect his survival or mindset in Hatchet.
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