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!
The Adventures of Tom Sawyer Characters
- Tom Sawyer
- Huckleberry Finn
- Becky Thatcher
- Sid Sawyer
- Aunt Polly
- Joe Harper
- Injun Joe
- Muff Potter
- Mr. Dobbins
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 The Adventures of Tom Sawyer 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 Character Traits, How Does This Character Interact with the Main Character, and What is the Narrator's Attitude Towards This Character.
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!
The Adventures of Tom Sawyer Characters
- Tom Sawyer
- Huckleberry Finn
- Becky Thatcher
- Sid Sawyer
- Aunt Polly
- Joe Harper
- Injun Joe
- Muff Potter
- Mr. Dobbins
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 The Adventures of Tom Sawyer 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 Character Traits, How Does This Character Interact with the Main Character, and What is the Narrator's Attitude Towards This Character.
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 Tom Sawyer Characters
How to Facilitate a Rich Class Discussion Using Character Maps
Encourage students to share their character maps in small groups or as a class. Peer discussion deepens understanding and uncovers new perspectives.
Prompt students with open-ended questions about character motivations
Ask questions like, “Why do you think Tom behaves this way?” or “How do Becky’s actions affect the story?” Open-ended questions spark critical thinking and engagement.
Guide students to connect characters’ traits to story events
Link traits from their maps to specific events in the book. This helps students see how character qualities drive the plot.
Model respectful listening and build on students’ ideas
Demonstrate active listening and encourage students to respond thoughtfully to peers. Respectful dialogue creates a safe space for sharing and growth.
Summarize key insights and revisit character maps after discussion
Review what was learned and update character maps with new insights. Reflection reinforces learning and keeps students invested in the text.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tom Sawyer Characters
What is a character map for The Adventures of Tom Sawyer?
A character map for The Adventures of Tom Sawyer is a visual organizer that helps students track important details, traits, and relationships of key characters as they read the novel, making it easier to understand the story and character development.
How do I create a character map for Tom Sawyer in my classroom?
To create a character map, list the major characters, select visuals and backgrounds that fit their traits, and fill in details like character traits, how they interact with Tom, and the narrator's attitude toward each character.
Why is character mapping useful when teaching classic novels like Tom Sawyer?
Character mapping helps students remember details, follow plot developments, and notice subtle character changes, making classic novels like Tom Sawyer more accessible and enjoyable for learners.
What are the main characters students should include in a Tom Sawyer character map?
The main characters to include are Tom Sawyer, Huckleberry Finn, Becky Thatcher, Sid Sawyer, Aunt Polly, Joe Harper, Injun Joe, Muff Potter, and Mr. Dobbins.
What information should students add for each character in a Tom Sawyer character map?
Students should add character traits, each character’s relationship to Tom Sawyer, and the narrator's attitude toward the character for a complete character map.
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