Activity Overview
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. When reading a novel, small attributes and details frequently become important as the plot progresses. With character mapping, students will record this information, helping them follow along and catch the subtleties which make reading more enjoyable!
A Tale of Two Cities Characters
- Charles Darnay
- Lucie Manette
- Sydney Carton
- Jarvis Lorry
- Dr. Alexandre Manette
- Ernest Defarge
- Therese Defarge
- John Barsad/Solomon Pross
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 A Tale of Two Cities 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 Quote.
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
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. When reading a novel, small attributes and details frequently become important as the plot progresses. With character mapping, students will record this information, helping them follow along and catch the subtleties which make reading more enjoyable!
A Tale of Two Cities Characters
- Charles Darnay
- Lucie Manette
- Sydney Carton
- Jarvis Lorry
- Dr. Alexandre Manette
- Ernest Defarge
- Therese Defarge
- John Barsad/Solomon Pross
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 A Tale of Two Cities 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 Quote.
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 A Tale of Two Cities Characters
Organize a character debate to deepen understanding
Encourage students to analyze major characters by hosting a classroom debate. Assign students to represent different characters from A Tale of Two Cities and prepare arguments based on their character's traits and motivations.
Assign character roles to students
Let each student or small group choose a character to research. This boosts engagement and helps students become experts on their assigned character.
Prepare evidence from the text
Have students gather quotes, actions, and character traits from the novel to support their arguments. This strengthens textual analysis skills and provides solid debate material.
Facilitate the character debate
Set up a structured debate where students present their character's viewpoints and respond to others. Use guiding questions to keep the discussion focused and respectful.
Reflect on new insights after the debate
Ask students to write or share what they learned about each character and how their perspectives changed. This reinforces critical thinking and empathy.
Frequently Asked Questions about A Tale of Two Cities Characters
How can I create a character map for A Tale of Two Cities?
To create a character map for A Tale of Two Cities, list the major characters, choose visual representations for each, and note their physical traits, character traits, and a key quote. This helps students track important details and relationships as they read.
What are the main characters in A Tale of Two Cities?
The main characters in A Tale of Two Cities are Charles Darnay, Lucie Manette, Sydney Carton, Jarvis Lorry, Dr. Alexandre Manette, Ernest Defarge, Therese Defarge, and John Barsad/Solomon Pross.
Why is a character map helpful when teaching novels?
A character map helps students organize and remember details about each character, making it easier to follow the plot and notice important character development or changes throughout the novel.
What should I include in a character log for students?
Include each character’s name, a picture or visual symbol, physical traits, character traits, and a quote that represents them. Optionally, add relationship notes and key scenes.
What is the best way to engage students in character mapping?
The best way is to have students create their own character maps, either individually or in pairs, choosing visuals, colors, and scenes that connect to the characters. This active approach increases engagement and comprehension.
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