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https://www.test.storyboardthat.com/lesson-plans/number-the-stars-by-lois-lowry/characters
Lesson Plan Overview
Template and Class Instructions
Student Rubric
Lesson Plan Overview
Lesson Plan Overview
As students read Number the Stars, 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. With character mapping, it’s easy for students to follow along and catch the subtleties which make reading more enjoyable!
In this “FAST” Character Map, students should state each character’s feelings, actions, sayings, and thoughts. Clicking "Use This Assignment" will copy both the example above and a blank template into your account. Feel free to use it as is, or to edit it for the level of your class. Printing it as worksheets, for your students to complete while reading, is a fast and easy way to incorporate this character map into your classroom
Template and Class Instructions
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 Number the Stars 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 Feelings, Actions, Sayings, and Thoughts.
Lesson Plan Reference
Student Rubric
Student Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
Character Map Rubric for Middle School
Create a character map of the characters in the story. Put the character's name in the title boxes and choose a character and scene to represent each one. As you read, take notes on the characters by answering the questions.
| Proficient 33 Points | Emerging 25 Points | Beginning 17 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Character Picture & Scene | The characters and scenes are all appropriate for the book's characters. They reflect strong understanding of the book's most important characters. | Most of the characters and scenes are appropriate for the book's characters. They reflect emerging understanding of the book's most important characters. | Many of the characters and scenes do not match the characters in the book. The project reflects a lack of understanding of the major characters. |
| 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. | Much of the information of the notes is incomplete and/or incorrect and irrelevant. |
| Effort and Editing | Work is complete, thorough, and neat. Spelling and grammar are correct. | Most of the sections of the character map were at least attempted and work is presentable. The text contains some errors in spelling and/or grammar. | Character map is unfinished and/or disorganized. The text contains many errors in spelling and/or grammar. |
Lesson Plan Overview
As students read Number the Stars, 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. With character mapping, it’s easy for students to follow along and catch the subtleties which make reading more enjoyable!
In this “FAST” Character Map, students should state each character’s feelings, actions, sayings, and thoughts. Clicking "Use This Assignment" will copy both the example above and a blank template into your account. Feel free to use it as is, or to edit it for the level of your class. Printing it as worksheets, for your students to complete while reading, is a fast and easy way to incorporate this character map into your classroom
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 Number the Stars 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 Feelings, Actions, Sayings, and Thoughts.
Lesson Plan Reference
Student Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
Character Map Rubric for Middle School
Create a character map of the characters in the story. Put the character's name in the title boxes and choose a character and scene to represent each one. As you read, take notes on the characters by answering the questions.
| Proficient 33 Points | Emerging 25 Points | Beginning 17 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Character Picture & Scene | The characters and scenes are all appropriate for the book's characters. They reflect strong understanding of the book's most important characters. | Most of the characters and scenes are appropriate for the book's characters. They reflect emerging understanding of the book's most important characters. | Many of the characters and scenes do not match the characters in the book. The project reflects a lack of understanding of the major characters. |
| 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. | Much of the information of the notes is incomplete and/or incorrect and irrelevant. |
| Effort and Editing | Work is complete, thorough, and neat. Spelling and grammar are correct. | Most of the sections of the character map were at least attempted and work is presentable. The text contains some errors in spelling and/or grammar. | Character map is unfinished and/or disorganized. The text contains many errors in spelling and/or grammar. |
How Tos about FAST Character Map for Number the Stars
1
Organize student groups for collaborative character mapping
Boost engagement by assigning students to small groups, pairing diverse skill levels and interests. Rotating group roles—such as illustrator, note-taker, and discussion leader—ensures everyone is involved and deepens understanding of the characters in Number the Stars.
2
Guide students to use evidence from the text
Encourage close reading by having students find and record specific quotes or passages that support their character map entries. Highlighting real examples from the book builds stronger connections and sharpens analytical skills.
3
Facilitate class discussions using completed character maps
Promote critical thinking by inviting students to share and compare their character maps. Ask open-ended questions to explore different perspectives and interpretations, making the analysis more dynamic and meaningful.
4
Incorporate creative extensions for deeper learning
Extend the activity by challenging students to write journal entries or letters from their character's point of view. Creative writing helps students internalize character motivations and fosters empathy with the story.
Frequently Asked Questions about FAST Character Map for Number the Stars
What is a FAST character map for Number the Stars?
A FAST character map for Number the Stars is a graphic organizer where students record a character’s Feelings, Actions, Sayings, and Thoughts. This tool helps students track major characters and understand their development throughout the story.
How can I use a character map worksheet while teaching Number the Stars?
You can print or assign a character map worksheet for students to fill out as they read Number the Stars. This activity encourages active reading by having students note important details about each character’s traits and behaviors.
What are the benefits of using character mapping in middle school literature lessons?
Character mapping helps students better remember details, analyze character development, and engage more deeply with literature. It also supports comprehension by organizing information visually, making it especially useful in middle school classrooms.
How do I create a FAST character map for a classroom activity?
To create a FAST character map, choose the main characters, then have students fill in their Feelings, Actions, Sayings, and Thoughts in labeled boxes. Use templates or digital tools to make the process simple and interactive.
What are some tips for helping students analyze characters in Number the Stars?
Encourage students to cite specific examples from the text for each character trait, discuss their findings in groups, and use visuals or storyboard elements to make their analysis engaging and memorable.
More Storyboard That Activities
Number the Stars
Image Attributions
- Fish Snip • rubyblossom. • License Attribution, Non Commercial (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/2.0/)
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StoryboardThat is a trademark of Clever Prototypes, LLC, and Registered in U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
