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 the story, paying close attention to the physical attributes, and the traits of both major and minor characters. They 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 characters in Inside Out and Back Again.
Student Instructions:
- Identify the main and supporting characters in Inside Out and Back Again 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 the story and the character's traits.
- Choose a scene or background that makes sense for the character.
- Fill in Textables for "Physical/Character Traits", "How does this character interact with the other characters?", 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 the story, paying close attention to the physical attributes, and the traits of both major and minor characters. They 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 characters in Inside Out and Back Again.
Student Instructions:
- Identify the main and supporting characters in Inside Out and Back Again 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 the story and the character's traits.
- Choose a scene or background that makes sense for the character.
- Fill in Textables for "Physical/Character Traits", "How does this character interact with the other characters?", 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 Characters in Inside Out and Back Again
Incorporate character maps into group discussions for deeper analysis
Enhance your classroom conversations by using character maps as visual aids during group work. Students reflect more deeply on character relationships and motivations when they can refer to their maps while discussing.
Assign student roles for collaborative character exploration
Divide students into small groups and assign each student a specific character to research and present. This strategy ensures all main and supporting characters are understood from multiple perspectives.
Facilitate a character traits gallery walk
Set up a gallery walk where students display their character maps around the classroom. Peers can leave comments or questions on sticky notes, encouraging interactive learning and critical thinking.
Integrate quotes to support character analysis
Have students find and add direct quotes from the text to their character maps to support their analysis. This reinforces text evidence skills and deepens understanding of character development.
Wrap up with reflective writing on character growth
Ask students to write a short reflection on how their chosen character changed throughout the novel. This step synthesizes their visual mapping and discussion work into a personal, analytical response.
Frequently Asked Questions about Characters in Inside Out and Back Again
How do I create a character map for Inside Out and Back Again?
To create a character map for Inside Out and Back Again, identify the main and supporting characters, note their physical and personality traits, select images or drawings to represent them, and describe their relationships, challenges, and importance to the story.
What are the main characters in Inside Out and Back Again?
The main characters in Inside Out and Back Again include Hà, her brothers, her mother, and other key figures from her journey. Focus on their roles, traits, and how they contribute to the plot.
What should students include in a character map for Inside Out and Back Again?
Students should include character names, physical and personality traits, challenges faced, interactions with others, and the character’s importance to the story. Visuals and background scenes can enhance the map.
Why is creating a character map useful when teaching Inside Out and Back Again?
Creating a character map helps students visualize relationships, understand character development, and track how each character’s actions impact the story’s plot, improving comprehension and engagement.
What are some tips for making a character map engaging for middle school students?
Use colorful visuals, let students choose poses and backgrounds, and encourage creative descriptions. Connecting character traits to scenes from the book can make the activity more interactive and meaningful for grades 6–8.
More Storyboard That Activities
Inside Out and Back Again
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