Activity Overview
For each of the major characters, list physical traits, character traits, and pivotal moments when the character makes a major discovery or action.
As students read, 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!
Clicking "Use This Assignment" will copy both the example above as well as a blank template for you to customize as desired. You may want students to start from scratch, or provide them with the questions and characters! Printing it as a worksheet, 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 Out of My Mind 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 Physical Traits, Character Traits, and Significant Moment.
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 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. |
Activity Overview
For each of the major characters, list physical traits, character traits, and pivotal moments when the character makes a major discovery or action.
As students read, 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!
Clicking "Use This Assignment" will copy both the example above as well as a blank template for you to customize as desired. You may want students to start from scratch, or provide them with the questions and characters! Printing it as a worksheet, 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 Out of My Mind 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 Physical Traits, Character Traits, and Significant Moment.
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 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 Out of My Mind Characters
How to facilitate a character discussion circle using character maps
Encourage students to share their character maps in small groups, fostering collaborative analysis and deeper understanding of each character’s role and growth.
Assign students to roles for leading group discussions
Designate discussion leaders, timekeepers, and notetakers to ensure active participation and accountability during character conversations.
Prompt students with open-ended questions about character choices
Use prompts like, “Why do you think this character acted this way?” to spark critical thinking and text-based evidence gathering.
Encourage respectful debate about character traits and motivations
Guide students to listen actively and respect differing viewpoints, building social-emotional skills alongside literary analysis.
Wrap up with group reflections and shared insights
Have each group summarize key discoveries and share highlights with the class, reinforcing learning outcomes and building confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions about Out of My Mind Characters
What is a character map, and how can it help students understand 'Out of My Mind'?
A character map is a visual organizer that helps students track a character’s physical traits, personality, and key moments. Using a character map for 'Out of My Mind' enables students to follow character development, recall details more easily, and deepen their understanding of the story.
How do you create a character map for 'Out of My Mind'?
To create a character map for 'Out of My Mind', list the main characters, choose images or symbols to represent them, and fill in details such as physical traits, character traits, and significant moments. Students can use a worksheet or digital storyboard to organize this information as they read.
What are the major characters in 'Out of My Mind'?
The major characters in 'Out of My Mind' include Melody Brooks (the protagonist), her parents, Mrs. V, and her classmates. Each plays a key role in the story’s events and Melody’s journey.
Why is character mapping useful for middle school students?
Character mapping supports middle school readers by helping them organize details, make connections between characters, and better remember pivotal story moments. It also enhances reading comprehension and engagement.
What are some tips for making a character map engaging in the classroom?
To make character maps engaging, let students customize colors and images, work individually or in pairs, and connect scenes to character traits. Providing templates or allowing students to start from scratch can increase creativity and ownership.
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Out of My Mind
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