Activity Overview
As students read, a storyboard can serve as a helpful character reference log. This character map allows students to recall or record relevant information about important characters. When reading a story, 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!
Though there are many characters in the tales of King Arthur, this activity lists the most central. Each one is linked to King Arthur in a very different, yet special way. In this exercise, students will explain those relationships to Arthur. In the area titled "Defining Moment", students should use examples from the text to show how that character demonstrates their heroic or villainous ways. To increase the exercise's depth, it is easy to add more characters.
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 King Arthur and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a character from the "Medieval" or "Myths and Monsters" 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.
- Fill in the text boxes for Character Traits, Relationship to Arthur, and Defining Moment.
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 character map allows students to recall or record relevant information about important characters. When reading a story, 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!
Though there are many characters in the tales of King Arthur, this activity lists the most central. Each one is linked to King Arthur in a very different, yet special way. In this exercise, students will explain those relationships to Arthur. In the area titled "Defining Moment", students should use examples from the text to show how that character demonstrates their heroic or villainous ways. To increase the exercise's depth, it is easy to add more characters.
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 King Arthur and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a character from the "Medieval" or "Myths and Monsters" 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.
- Fill in the text boxes for Character Traits, Relationship to Arthur, and Defining Moment.
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 King Arthur Character Map
Organize a King Arthur character discussion circle
Invite students to share their character maps in a small group or whole-class setting. Hearing different perspectives helps students deepen their understanding and notice new details about each character's role and relationships.
Assign each student a unique character to research deeper
Give students a specific King Arthur character to explore. Encourage them to find additional information from the text and trusted resources, building expertise and confidence in sharing with peers.
Facilitate a “Defining Moment” creative writing task
Ask students to write a short scene or internal monologue from their character’s point of view during their defining moment. This activity helps them empathize with characters and practice narrative skills.
Display completed character maps on a classroom wall or digital board
Create a visual reference by posting student maps for all to see. This ongoing display supports memory, encourages peer learning, and celebrates student work.
Encourage students to update their maps as the story progresses
Remind students to revisit and revise their character maps whenever a new trait or relationship appears. This habit fosters active reading and helps students track character development over time.
Frequently Asked Questions about King Arthur Character Map
What is a King Arthur character map and how can it help students?
A King Arthur character map is a graphic organizer that helps students visually track and connect the story’s main characters, their traits, and relationships to King Arthur. It aids comprehension by making character details and plot connections easy to see and recall.
How do you create a character map for King Arthur and his companions?
To create a character map for King Arthur, list the major characters, select visual representations, and fill in sections like Character Traits, Relationship to Arthur, and Defining Moment using examples from the story.
What are the key elements to include in a King Arthur character map activity?
Key elements include character names, visual icons or images, traits, their relationship to Arthur, and a defining moment from the text to illustrate their heroism or villainy.
Why is character mapping useful for middle school students studying King Arthur?
Character mapping helps middle schoolers engage with complex stories by organizing important details, making it easier to follow plot developments and understand how characters influence King Arthur’s journey.
Can I add more characters to a King Arthur character map? How?
Yes, you can easily add more characters by including new sections or boxes in your map, then filling in their traits, relationship to Arthur, and defining moments based on the story.
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