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. With character mapping, students will record this information, helping them follow along and catch the subtleties which make reading more enjoyable!
Mudge
Physical Appearance
- dog
- floppy ears
- straight fur
- 180 pounds
- 3 feet tall
Character Traits
- loving
- protective
- friendly
- likes to smell
Evidence
- "Mudge had floppy ears, not pointed. Mudge had straight fur, not curly."
- "Then he loved to smell him."
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 Henry and Mudge and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a Storyboard That character to represent each of the book 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 Evidence.
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
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. With character mapping, students will record this information, helping them follow along and catch the subtleties which make reading more enjoyable!
Mudge
Physical Appearance
- dog
- floppy ears
- straight fur
- 180 pounds
- 3 feet tall
Character Traits
- loving
- protective
- friendly
- likes to smell
Evidence
- "Mudge had floppy ears, not pointed. Mudge had straight fur, not curly."
- "Then he loved to smell him."
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 Henry and Mudge and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a Storyboard That character to represent each of the book 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 Evidence.
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 Henry and Mudge Character Map
Organize student character maps for collaborative classroom discussions
Facilitate teamwork by grouping students and assigning each group a character to map. Share their findings with the class so everyone benefits from different perspectives. Rotate roles like illustrator, note-taker, and presenter to keep all students engaged and responsible for their character's traits and evidence.
Model how to identify key character traits using text evidence
Show students how to highlight or underline descriptive words and phrases in the story. Explain how these clues reveal important character traits. Connect each trait to specific sentences or actions in the book to help students practice citing evidence.
Guide students to use visuals and text for deeper character understanding
Encourage students to choose character images, colors, and backgrounds that match the character’s personality. Discuss why their choices make sense and how visuals can communicate details not found in the text alone. Support creativity while reinforcing comprehension.
Review and reflect on character maps to reinforce comprehension
Set aside class time for students to share their completed character maps. Ask reflective questions about each character’s traits and motivations. Encourage students to compare and contrast characters, deepening their understanding of the story’s dynamics.
Frequently Asked Questions about Henry and Mudge Character Map
What is a character map in reading lessons?
A character map is a visual tool that helps students track and organize information about characters in a story, including their physical traits, personality, and key details. This enhances comprehension and engagement while reading.
How can I create a character map for Henry and Mudge?
To create a character map for Henry and Mudge, identify the main characters, add their names, choose images or drawings to represent them, and fill in sections for physical appearance, character traits, and supporting evidence from the text.
Why is character mapping useful for 2nd and 3rd graders?
Character mapping helps 2nd and 3rd graders remember details, understand character motivations, and make reading more enjoyable by promoting active engagement with the story.
What are some examples of character traits for Mudge?
Examples of character traits for Mudge include being loving, protective, friendly, and curious, as shown by his actions and descriptions in the book.
What evidence from 'Henry and Mudge' supports Mudge’s traits?
Evidence supporting Mudge’s traits includes quotes like “Mudge had floppy ears, not pointed” and “Then he loved to smell him,” which show his appearance and affectionate personality.
More Storyboard That Activities
Henry and Mudge: The First Book
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