Activity Overview
In this activity, students create an outline for the characters in the story, paying close attention to the feelings and actions 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.
You can click on this map and create a copy on your teacher account. 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.
Here is an example for Brady Parks:
- Traits: Courageous and determined
- How does this character change over time? Brady realizes the impact he made in saving Ben's life.
- What challenges does this character face? Brady is faced with the challenge of finding Ben. Brady deals with cold, rainy weather. Brady drops his phone in the water.
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 Red Kayak 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/Character Traits, How Does This Character Change Over Time, and What Challenges Does This Character Face.
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 feelings and actions 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.
You can click on this map and create a copy on your teacher account. 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.
Here is an example for Brady Parks:
- Traits: Courageous and determined
- How does this character change over time? Brady realizes the impact he made in saving Ben's life.
- What challenges does this character face? Brady is faced with the challenge of finding Ben. Brady deals with cold, rainy weather. Brady drops his phone in the water.
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 Red Kayak 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/Character Traits, How Does This Character Change Over Time, and What Challenges Does This Character Face.
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 Describing Characters in Red Kayak
Incorporate character dialogue to deepen understanding
Adding direct quotes and imagined conversations helps students analyze character motives and emotions in context. Encourage students to select or write brief dialogues showing how characters respond to challenges or interact with others, supporting deeper comprehension.
Model how to choose meaningful dialogue from the text
Guide students to find lines that reveal feelings, personality, or relationships. Use think-alouds to show why a quote matters, focusing on how it shows a character’s growth or perspective in the story.
Have students add dialogue to their character maps
Ask students to write or paste short dialogue excerpts near the character’s name or traits. This visual connection makes character motivations and emotions clearer and more memorable.
Facilitate peer sharing for diverse perspectives
Invite students to share their chosen dialogue in pairs or small groups. Discussing choices helps students see how different lines highlight unique traits or turning points for each character.
Frequently Asked Questions about Describing Characters in Red Kayak
What is a character map for Red Kayak?
A character map for Red Kayak is a graphic organizer that helps students outline and analyze the traits, actions, challenges, and development of the story's main and minor characters as they read.
How can I use a character map worksheet in my Red Kayak lesson?
You can print the character map worksheet for students to fill out as they read, encouraging them to track each character’s traits, challenges, and growth. It's an easy way to boost comprehension and engagement in your classroom.
What are examples of character traits for Brady Parks in Red Kayak?
Examples of Brady Parks's character traits include being courageous and determined. He faces tough challenges like rescuing Ben and coping with difficult weather.
Why is tracking character changes important when reading Red Kayak?
Tracking character changes helps students understand character development, motivations, and the impact of events on the main character, deepening comprehension and critical thinking skills.
What is the best way to adapt the Red Kayak character map for different grade levels?
The best way to adapt the character map is to simplify prompts for younger students or add more detailed analysis questions for older students. Editing the template to match your class's needs makes it flexible for various grade levels.
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