Activity Overview
Character maps are a helpful way for students to keep track of characters, traits, motivations, and more while they read a story. In this activity, students will create a character map of the characters in Lily's Crossing. They will pay close attention to the physical attributes and the traits of both major and minor characters. Students 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 major characters in Lily’s Crossing.
Student Instructions:
- Click “Start Assignment”.
- Identify the major characters in Lily’s Crossing and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a character to represent each of the book characters. Note: be sure to select colors and a pose appropriate to story and character traits.
- Fill in Textables for Physical/Character Traits, How does this character change throughout the novel?, 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 way for students to keep track of characters, traits, motivations, and more while they read a story. In this activity, students will create a character map of the characters in Lily's Crossing. They will pay close attention to the physical attributes and the traits of both major and minor characters. Students 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 major characters in Lily’s Crossing.
Student Instructions:
- Click “Start Assignment”.
- Identify the major characters in Lily’s Crossing and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a character to represent each of the book characters. Note: be sure to select colors and a pose appropriate to story and character traits.
- Fill in Textables for Physical/Character Traits, How does this character change throughout the novel?, 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 of Lily\'s Crossing
Organize character maps for group discussions
Prepare copies of student character maps and arrange students into small groups. This allows each student to share their character analysis and gain new perspectives from peers. Discussing character traits and plot connections as a group deepens understanding and helps students practice respectful listening and speaking skills.
Assign character map roles within each group
Designate specific roles in each group, such as discussion leader, recorder, and presenter. Encouraging responsibility for a role helps students stay engaged and ensures everyone participates. Rotating roles for each session gives all students a chance to try different tasks.
Guide students to compare character perspectives
Prompt students to compare how each character views major events in the story. Use guiding questions like “How would Lily react compared to Albert?” This activity develops empathy and critical thinking by exploring multiple viewpoints.
Facilitate group presentations of findings
Invite each group to present their character map insights to the class. Encourage creative formats such as skits or posters. Presenting builds confidence and reinforces comprehension by teaching others.
Frequently Asked Questions about Characters of Lily\'s Crossing
What is a character map for Lily's Crossing?
A character map for Lily's Crossing is a visual organizer that helps students track and analyze the main and minor characters, their physical and personality traits, challenges, and how they develop throughout the novel.
How can I help students create a character map for Lily's Crossing?
To guide students, have them list major characters, select representative images or icons, and fill in details like physical traits, personality, challenges, and character growth, using provided templates or tools.
Why is making a character map useful when reading Lily's Crossing?
Creating a character map helps students deepen comprehension, visualize relationships, and remember key details about each character, making it easier to follow the plot and understand character development.
What are some key traits to include for Lily in a character map?
Include Lily's physical description, her personality traits such as bravery and curiosity, the challenges she faces during wartime, and how she changes by the end of the story.
What grade levels is the Lily’s Crossing character map activity best for?
The Lily's Crossing character map activity is best suited for grades 4 to 6, supporting developing readers as they analyze character traits and growth.
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