Activity Overview
For a shorter activity, consider using single storyboard squares to have students depict Douglass’s important character traits. Students will identify a character quality that stands out to them and depict a scene through which Douglass exhibits this quality. Students can explain their reasoning in a text box below the image, or can include an accompanying quotation from the narrative.
Character Trait Square Example
Loyal Friend
For Douglass, the hardest part about running away is leaving behind his close friends in Baltimore. The thought of being separated from them almost makes him stay behind.
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 single cell storyboard depicting one of Frederick Douglass' character traits.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title, identify the character trait.
- In the description, write a summary of one moment where Douglass displays the trait and why.
- Create an illustration using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
Lesson Plan Reference
Activity Overview
For a shorter activity, consider using single storyboard squares to have students depict Douglass’s important character traits. Students will identify a character quality that stands out to them and depict a scene through which Douglass exhibits this quality. Students can explain their reasoning in a text box below the image, or can include an accompanying quotation from the narrative.
Character Trait Square Example
Loyal Friend
For Douglass, the hardest part about running away is leaving behind his close friends in Baltimore. The thought of being separated from them almost makes him stay behind.
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 single cell storyboard depicting one of Frederick Douglass' character traits.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title, identify the character trait.
- In the description, write a summary of one moment where Douglass displays the trait and why.
- Create an illustration using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about Frederick Douglass Character Trait Square
How to Facilitate a Class Discussion on Frederick Douglass’s Character Traits
Engage students in a whole-class conversation about Douglass’s qualities to deepen understanding and encourage diverse perspectives. Group discussions help students articulate and expand their thinking while building respectful listening skills.
Ask students to brainstorm character traits together
List Douglass’s traits on the board as students share their ideas. Encourage everyone to contribute, reinforcing collaborative learning and activating prior knowledge.
Prompt students to provide text evidence
Invite students to find passages or quotes that support each character trait. This strengthens close reading skills and teaches students to back up their ideas with evidence.
Encourage students to connect traits to real life
Guide students to relate Douglass’s qualities to people they know or admire. Making personal connections increases engagement and helps students internalize character lessons.
Wrap up with a reflective exit ticket
Have students jot down which character trait of Douglass they find most inspiring and why. This quick reflection checks understanding and helps you assess student learning.
Frequently Asked Questions about Frederick Douglass Character Trait Square
What is the Frederick Douglass Character Trait Square activity?
The Frederick Douglass Character Trait Square is a short lesson where students pick a key character trait of Douglass, illustrate a scene showing that trait, and explain their reasoning or add a supporting quote from his narrative.
How do I create a storyboard square for Frederick Douglass’s character traits?
To create a storyboard square, choose a trait that Douglass shows, illustrate a scene reflecting it, and write a summary or include a quote explaining your choice, all in a single cell format.
What are some examples of Frederick Douglass’s character traits I can use in this activity?
Examples of Douglass’s character traits include courage, determination, loyalty, resilience, and hope. Select any trait that stands out and find a scene that best represents it.
Why is it important for students to identify character traits in Frederick Douglass’s narrative?
Identifying character traits helps students understand Douglass’s personality, motivations, and the historical context, deepening their connection to the text and its themes.
What grade levels is the Frederick Douglass Character Trait Square suitable for?
This activity is designed for grades 6–12 and can be adapted for various skill levels from developing to mastery.
More Storyboard That Activities
Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass
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