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. When reading a play, 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!
King Lear Characters
- King Lear
- Goneril
- Regan
- Cordelia
- Earl of Kent
- Earl of Gloucester
- Edgar
- Edmund
- The Fool
- Duke of Albany
- Duke of Cornwall
- Oswald
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 Lear 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 Character Traits, Allies and Friends, Foes, and 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
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. When reading a play, 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!
King Lear Characters
- King Lear
- Goneril
- Regan
- Cordelia
- Earl of Kent
- Earl of Gloucester
- Edgar
- Edmund
- The Fool
- Duke of Albany
- Duke of Cornwall
- Oswald
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 Lear 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 Character Traits, Allies and Friends, Foes, and 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 Characters in King Lear
How to help students connect character traits with textual evidence in King Lear
Encourage students to find direct quotes that reveal character traits. This deepens understanding and supports analytical thinking.
Model finding a character trait and matching it to a quote
Select a character trait (e.g., loyalty for Kent) and demonstrate how to scan the text for a moment that illustrates it. Show students how a character’s words or actions reflect that trait.
Guide students to annotate evidence while reading
Ask students to highlight or jot down lines in their scripts that showcase important traits. This habit builds close reading skills and makes later reference easier.
Facilitate pair or group discussions about character evidence
Organize short discussions where students share their chosen traits and quotes. Peer collaboration allows for richer insights and clarifies understanding.
Create a visual chart linking traits and textual support
Have students build a chart or use sticky notes on a poster, matching each trait to the corresponding evidence. Visual mapping reinforces connections and aids memory.
Frequently Asked Questions about Characters in King Lear
What is a character map for King Lear, and how does it help students?
A character map for King Lear is a visual organizer that helps students track important characters, their traits, relationships, and notable quotes. It supports comprehension by clarifying connections and making it easier to remember key plot details as the play unfolds.
How can I create a simple character map for King Lear in my classroom?
To create a simple King Lear character map, list major characters in title boxes, add images or drawings, and fill out sections for character traits, allies, foes, and a key quote for each. Encourage students to use colors and backgrounds that reflect each character's role in the story.
Which characters should be included in a King Lear character map for students?
Include King Lear, Goneril, Regan, Cordelia, Earl of Kent, Earl of Gloucester, Edgar, Edmund, The Fool, Duke of Albany, Duke of Cornwall, and Oswald in a student character map. These are the main figures essential for understanding the play.
What are some easy ways for students to identify character traits in King Lear?
Students can identify character traits by observing characters’ speech, actions, and relationships. Encourage them to look for repeated behaviors, notable decisions, and how other characters react to them throughout the play.
Why is character mapping a useful activity for teaching King Lear to high school students?
Character mapping helps high school students break down complex relationships, track evolving loyalties, and retain subtle plot details, making Shakespeare’s play more engaging and easier to follow.
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