Activity Overview
Storyboarding is an excellent way to focus on comparisons of characters. Students can explore characters by centering around interests, actions, or character traits. In the storyboard, each example should be visually represented, along with an explanation of the character, and why it shows a certain trait or aspect of that character.
Using a T-Chart with three cells across, show how two characters are both similar and dissimilar in their attitude towards Melody. The center cell should show how the characters are the same and the outside cells should show their differences. This should be done in the fashion a Venn Diagram is done - the middle cell is the same as where the two circles overlap.
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 storyboard comparing and contrasting two characters from Out of my Mind.
- Use the template provided by your teacher.
- Select two characters from the story. List their similarities in the middle cell.
- List the traits that make them unique or different in the right and left cells.
- Illustrate each cell with appropriate characters, scenes, and items.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison Analysis | Text and images include a clear explanation of similarities and/or differences between the categories or topics. These comparisons go beyond superficial elements and show strong understanding. | Text and images include an explanation of similarities and/or differences between the categories or topics, but the explanation may lack clarity or show only superficial understanding in some squares. | Text and images may include no explanation of similarities and/or differences, or they may make only superficial or inaccurate comparisons. |
| Storyboard Image and Effort | Student clearly shows effort to convey the setting, characters and specific scene of the book. The scene is clearly identifiable based on the graphic depiction. | Student attempts to convey the setting, characters, and specific scene through use of graphics, but the depiction may be confusing, disordered, or lack some detail. | Student does not clearly convey the setting, characters, and scene. |
| Spelling and Grammar | Student uses exemplary spelling and grammar. There are no errors. | Student makes one or two minor errors in spelling and grammar. | Student makes multiple errors in spelling and grammar. |
Activity Overview
Storyboarding is an excellent way to focus on comparisons of characters. Students can explore characters by centering around interests, actions, or character traits. In the storyboard, each example should be visually represented, along with an explanation of the character, and why it shows a certain trait or aspect of that character.
Using a T-Chart with three cells across, show how two characters are both similar and dissimilar in their attitude towards Melody. The center cell should show how the characters are the same and the outside cells should show their differences. This should be done in the fashion a Venn Diagram is done - the middle cell is the same as where the two circles overlap.
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 storyboard comparing and contrasting two characters from Out of my Mind.
- Use the template provided by your teacher.
- Select two characters from the story. List their similarities in the middle cell.
- List the traits that make them unique or different in the right and left cells.
- Illustrate each cell with appropriate characters, scenes, and items.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison Analysis | Text and images include a clear explanation of similarities and/or differences between the categories or topics. These comparisons go beyond superficial elements and show strong understanding. | Text and images include an explanation of similarities and/or differences between the categories or topics, but the explanation may lack clarity or show only superficial understanding in some squares. | Text and images may include no explanation of similarities and/or differences, or they may make only superficial or inaccurate comparisons. |
| Storyboard Image and Effort | Student clearly shows effort to convey the setting, characters and specific scene of the book. The scene is clearly identifiable based on the graphic depiction. | Student attempts to convey the setting, characters, and specific scene through use of graphics, but the depiction may be confusing, disordered, or lack some detail. | Student does not clearly convey the setting, characters, and scene. |
| Spelling and Grammar | Student uses exemplary spelling and grammar. There are no errors. | Student makes one or two minor errors in spelling and grammar. | Student makes multiple errors in spelling and grammar. |
How Tos about Out of My Mind: Compare and Contrast Characters
How to Guide Students in Finding Textual Evidence for Character Traits
Prompt students to cite specific details from the text when describing character traits. Model how to highlight or underline key phrases that reveal personality, actions, or motivations.
Explain the importance of supporting comparisons with examples
Discuss why using examples from the story strengthens comparisons. Point out that evidence helps classmates and teachers understand and agree with their ideas.
Encourage peer discussion to deepen understanding
Organize small group or partner talks where students share their evidence and reasoning. Invite them to ask questions or challenge each other's choices respectfully for deeper learning.
Guide students to revise their storyboards using feedback
Provide time for students to review peer or teacher feedback. Encourage them to clarify or expand on their evidence to make their character comparisons stronger and more accurate.
Frequently Asked Questions about Out of My Mind: Compare and Contrast Characters
How can I compare and contrast characters from Out of My Mind using a storyboard?
To compare and contrast characters from Out of My Mind using a storyboard, select two characters, identify their similarities in the center cell of a T-Chart, and their unique traits in the side cells. Illustrate each cell with scenes and items that represent their traits and relationships.
What is the best way to show similarities and differences between two characters in a lesson?
The best way is to use a T-Chart or a Venn Diagram format. Place similarities in the middle and differences on the sides. Visuals and explanations help students clearly see how the characters are alike and different.
How do I use a T-Chart to compare attitudes toward Melody in Out of My Mind?
Divide the T-Chart into three sections. Write each character’s attitude toward Melody in the outer cells and their shared perspectives in the center. Add examples from the book and visual representations to support your comparisons.
Why is storyboarding effective for comparing character traits in middle school ELA?
Storyboarding is effective because it combines visual learning with text analysis, making abstract character traits more concrete and engaging for middle schoolers. It encourages deeper understanding and creativity.
What are some easy templates for compare and contrast activities in literature lessons?
Common templates include T-Charts, Venn Diagrams, and storyboards with labeled sections. These help students organize information and visually display similarities and differences between literary characters.
More Storyboard That Activities
Out of My Mind
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