Activity Overview
In this activity, students create an outline for the characters in the story, paying close attention to the physical characteristics and the character traits of both major and minor characters. Students can also provide detailed information regarding the character’s actions, how they influence other characters, and how the main character changed over time.
Characters included in this character map are:
- Matilda
- Mr. and Mrs. Wormwood
- Michael Wormwood
- Mrs. Phelps
- Miss Honey
- Miss Trunchbull
- Lavender
- Hortensia
- Bruce Bogtrotter
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 Matilda 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 story and character traits.
- Choose a scene or background that makes sense for the character.
- Fill in Textables for Physical Characteristics, Personal Traits, and How does s/he influence Matilda? or How does Matilda change?.
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
In this activity, students create an outline for the characters in the story, paying close attention to the physical characteristics and the character traits of both major and minor characters. Students can also provide detailed information regarding the character’s actions, how they influence other characters, and how the main character changed over time.
Characters included in this character map are:
- Matilda
- Mr. and Mrs. Wormwood
- Michael Wormwood
- Mrs. Phelps
- Miss Honey
- Miss Trunchbull
- Lavender
- Hortensia
- Bruce Bogtrotter
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 Matilda 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 story and character traits.
- Choose a scene or background that makes sense for the character.
- Fill in Textables for Physical Characteristics, Personal Traits, and How does s/he influence Matilda? or How does Matilda change?.
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 Mapa de caracteres para Matilda
How to Facilitate a Character Map Discussion in Class
Encourage students to share their ideas about each character aloud. Open discussion helps students deepen their understanding and see different perspectives. Guide the conversation by asking questions about characters’ motivations and growth throughout the story.
Model Completing a Character Map Together
Demonstrate how to fill out one section of the character map as a class. Use think-aloud strategies to make your thought process visible. This builds student confidence and clarifies expectations.
Use Visuals and Quotes to Support Character Analysis
Provide students with images and key quotes from the book. Visuals and direct text evidence help students make stronger connections to the characters’ traits and actions.
Assign Character Map Groups for Peer Collaboration
Divide students into small groups to work on different characters. Collaborative work allows for deeper analysis and lets students learn from peers’ insights. Rotate groups to review and add to each other’s maps.
Reflect on Character Growth After the Activity
Have students write or share how their understanding of the characters has changed. Reflection reinforces learning and highlights the importance of character development in stories.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mapa de caracteres para Matilda
What is a character map for Matilda?
A character map for Matilda is a visual tool that helps students outline the main and supporting characters in Roald Dahl’s book. It highlights their physical traits, personality characteristics, actions, and character development throughout the story.
How do I create a character map for Matilda in my classroom?
To create a character map for Matilda, have students identify major characters, use a storyboard or template, select images or colors that represent each character, and fill out details on traits, actions, and how they influence Matilda or change over time.
Which characters should be included in a Matilda character map?
Include Matilda, Mr. and Mrs. Wormwood, Michael Wormwood, Mrs. Phelps, Miss Honey, Miss Trunchbull, Lavender, Hortensia, and Bruce Bogtrotter in your Matilda character map for a complete overview.
What are some example questions to prompt students when mapping Matilda characters?
Ask students questions like: What are this character’s main traits? How do they impact Matilda? How does this character change? What important actions do they take in the story?
Why is using a character map helpful for teaching Matilda?
Character maps help students better understand the relationships, motivations, and growth of each character in Matilda, promoting deeper comprehension and engagement with the text.
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