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 Kira-Kira.
Student Instructions:
- Identify the main and supporting characters in Kira-Kira 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 Kira-Kira.
Student Instructions:
- Identify the main and supporting characters in Kira-Kira 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 Kira-Kira Character Map
How to Guide Students in Analyzing Character Growth Over Time
Encourage students to track key moments in the story where characters change or learn important lessons. Use a simple chart or timeline to help students visualize how each character’s traits, actions, or relationships develop from the beginning to the end of the book.
Model using text evidence to support character analysis
Demonstrate how to find and cite specific passages from the book that reveal a character’s personality or growth. Show students how to use quotation marks and page numbers, and explain why supporting observations with text evidence makes their analysis stronger.
Facilitate group discussions about character motivations
Organize small groups for students to share ideas about why characters make certain choices. Guide students to listen actively, ask clarifying questions, and respectfully challenge each other’s viewpoints for a richer understanding of character motivations.
Integrate creative activities to deepen character understanding
Invite students to write a diary entry or letter from a character’s perspective, focusing on a crucial moment in the story. This helps students empathize with the character and demonstrate their understanding in a fun, imaginative way.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kira-Kira Character Map
What is a character map in literature?
A character map is a visual organizer that helps students track and analyze the traits, relationships, and challenges of characters in a story. It encourages deeper understanding by highlighting each character's role and development throughout the plot.
How can students create a character map for Kira-Kira?
To create a character map for Kira-Kira, students should identify main and supporting characters, use visuals to represent them, select appropriate colors and backgrounds, and fill in details about physical traits, character traits, relationships, and challenges faced by each character.
Why are character maps useful for middle school students?
Character maps help middle school students organize their thoughts, improve reading comprehension, and make connections between characters and plot events, fostering critical thinking and engagement with the text.
What are the key elements to include in a character map for Kira-Kira?
Key elements include character names, physical and character traits, relationships with other characters, challenges faced or imposed, and the character's importance to the plot of Kira-Kira.
What is the best way to adapt a character map activity for individual students?
The best way is to provide clear instructions, allow students to choose visuals and details meaningful to them, and encourage creativity in representing each character’s traits and role in the story. This supports personalized learning and engagement.
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