Activity Overview
In this activity, students will depict the characters in The Black Stallion by Walter Farley using a character map. Have students pay close attention to the physical and character traits of both major and minor characters. Students will provide detailed information regarding how the characters interact with the main characters, as well as challenges the characters face.
Characters included in the character map are:
- Alexander “Alec” Ramsey
- The Black
- Pat
- Henry Dailey
- Napoleon
- Tony
- Mr. and Mrs. Ramsey
- Jim Neville
- Joe Russo
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 Black Stallion 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 Interact with the Main Character, 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 will depict the characters in The Black Stallion by Walter Farley using a character map. Have students pay close attention to the physical and character traits of both major and minor characters. Students will provide detailed information regarding how the characters interact with the main characters, as well as challenges the characters face.
Characters included in the character map are:
- Alexander “Alec” Ramsey
- The Black
- Pat
- Henry Dailey
- Napoleon
- Tony
- Mr. and Mrs. Ramsey
- Jim Neville
- Joe Russo
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 Black Stallion 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 Interact with the Main Character, 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 Mapping Characters in The Black Stallion
How to facilitate a classroom discussion about character motivations in The Black Stallion
Encourage students to analyze why each character acts the way they do by asking open-ended questions and prompting them to cite examples from the text. This fosters critical thinking and deeper understanding of character development.
Guide students to make text-to-self connections with characters
Invite students to relate the experiences or feelings of a character to their own lives. This personalizes learning and helps students empathize with the story’s characters.
Use graphic organizers to compare character traits
Provide Venn diagrams or T-charts so students can visually compare and contrast two characters’ traits. This strategy supports visual learners and clarifies similarities and differences.
Assign partner conversations for sharing character insights
Pair students and have them discuss their character maps or observations. Sharing ideas in pairs boosts confidence and allows for peer learning.
Wrap up with a creative character reflection activity
Ask students to write a diary entry or letter from a character’s perspective. This consolidates understanding and encourages imaginative thinking.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mapping Characters in The Black Stallion
How do you create a character map for The Black Stallion?
To create a character map for The Black Stallion, list the main characters, select images or symbols to represent them, and describe each character’s physical traits, personality, relationships with Alec, and challenges they face. Use colors and backgrounds that fit each character’s role in the story.
What are the major characters in The Black Stallion?
The major characters in The Black Stallion include Alexander “Alec” Ramsey, the Black, Henry Dailey, and other important figures like Pat, Napoleon, Tony, Mr. and Mrs. Ramsey, Jim Neville, and Joe Russo.
What should students include in a character map for The Black Stallion?
Students should include each character’s physical and personality traits, their interactions with Alec, and the challenges they encounter in the story. Visual elements like colors, poses, and backgrounds should reflect the character’s role and traits.
Why is mapping characters important when teaching The Black Stallion?
Mapping characters helps students understand relationships, motivations, and character development. It reinforces comprehension, encourages attention to detail, and supports visual learners by organizing information clearly.
What are some tips for making character maps engaging for 4th and 5th graders?
Make character maps engaging by letting students choose colors, backgrounds, and character poses, work in pairs, and use creative symbols. Encourage them to connect characters’ challenges to story events for deeper understanding.
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